Emirates has officially inaugurated its first Emirates World store in Nairobi, Kenya, marking a significant milestone for the airline in the African market. Situated in the heart of Nairobi at the Cube, Riverside Drive, this innovative retail store introduces a fresh, immersive customer experience for travelers in Kenya, embodying Emirates’ ongoing commitment to enhancing its service offerings on the continent.
The grand opening of the Emirates World store was celebrated by prominent figures, including Adil Al Ghaith, Senior Vice President of Commercial Operations, Center, and His Excellency Dr. Salim Alnaqbi, the UAE Ambassador to Kenya. Attended by various distinguished guests and media partners, the event emphasized the importance of this expansion in the airline’s African strategy.
A New Era of Travel Retail
The Emirates World store is the first of its kind in Africa, and it sets a new standard for how airlines engage with travelers on the ground. Spanning over 330 square meters, the store is designed with an open, lounge-like feel, combining Emirates’ signature light and airy aesthetic with modern, cutting-edge technology. Upon entering, visitors are greeted with a space that promotes a relaxed yet dynamic atmosphere, where they can explore the full range of Emirates services.
A highlight of the store is the immersive A380 Onboard Lounge experience. This full-size showcase replicates the airline’s famous luxury cabin, giving customers a taste of what it’s like to travel in Emirates’ iconic aircraft. Additionally, innovative features such as the ‘selfie mirror,’ which allows travelers to take pictures with backdrops of scenic destinations, add a fun and interactive element to the store experience.
For those looking for more personalized services, the Emirates World store boasts six dedicated customer service counters, each manned by expert consultants. These professionals provide travel advice, assist with reservations, and guide visitors through Emirates’ holiday offerings. The self-service kiosks also provide a quicker, hassle-free way for customers to manage their bookings or seek general assistance.
Supporting Seamless Travel and Personalization
Emirates is known for its exceptional customer service, and this new retail concept is no different. The store aims to bring the airline’s renowned ‘Fly Better’ promise to life, offering not just products but experiences that resonate with travelers. Whether customers are exploring vacation packages through Emirates Holidays or seeking tailored travel itineraries, the store ensures they are well-supported throughout their journey planning.
Moreover, this new store is a reflection of Emirates’ broader efforts to streamline travel across Kenya and beyond. The airline’s strategic partnership with Kenya Airways has expanded travel options, providing seamless connections to 28 additional African destinations. This partnership also facilitates smoother access to areas like Mombasa, Kilimanjaro, and Kigali, making Emirates a key player in promoting regional tourism and business travel.
A Commitment to Kenya’s Growth and Development
Emirates’ presence in Kenya goes far beyond its commercial success. The airline is nearing its 30th anniversary in the country, having flown over five million passengers since its inaugural flight in 1995. In addition to its flight operations, Emirates is deeply invested in supporting local communities. Through the Emirates Airline Foundation, the airline sponsors a number of humanitarian initiatives in Kenya, focusing on child welfare and education.
Some of the notable beneficiaries include the Little Prince Nursery and Primary School, which provides education and rehabilitation for children, and Alfajiri Street Kids, which offers art therapy and a safe environment for children in need. Furthermore, Emirates’ support for Starehe Boys’ Centre, through scholarships, continues to provide educational opportunities for underprivileged boys, helping them achieve their academic and personal potential.
As Emirates looks toward the future, this new store in Nairobi symbolizes more than just a retail space—it represents the airline’s dedication to providing exceptional service, enriching the travel experience, and contributing to the social development of Kenya. With more Emirates World stores set to open across Africa in the coming months, the airline’s commitment to Africa’s growth, innovation, and customer satisfaction is clearly evident.
