Emirates is seeking regulatory approval from the German Federal Ministry of Transport to launch daily nonstop services from Dubai (DXB) to Berlin Brandenburg (BER) and Stuttgart (STR). The airline has committed to an annual operational investment of more than €100 million ($106 million) for the two routes, according to a statement from President Tim Clark.
The proposed expansion addresses a long-standing gap in long-haul connectivity for both cities. Berlin, with a metropolitan population of 3.9 million, lacks direct flights to many key global markets. Stuttgart, the industrial heart of Baden-Württemberg and home to major automotive and engineering firms, is similarly underserved for intercontinental travel.
“These are two of Germany’s most important economic centres yet both remain underserved when it comes to long-haul connectivity,” said Clark.
A study commissioned by Emirates and conducted by the German Aerospace Centre (DLR) estimates that the daily flights would generate nearly 1,000 direct and indirect jobs across both cities. The economic impact would extend beyond aviation, with increased tourism from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries — a segment that contributed $2.44 billion (€2.3 billion) to the German economy in 2024.
Cargo and connectivity gains
Beyond passenger traffic, the routes would add more than 280 tonnes of weekly bellyhold cargo capacity. This is particularly significant for time-sensitive exports such as pharmaceuticals, automotive components, and machinery — sectors that dominate Stuttgart’s industrial base. Emirates SkyCargo already operates a dedicated freighter network, and the new passenger flights would complement its existing services. (See related: Emirates SkyCargo Launches Weekly B777F Service to Almaty, Opening Central Asia Trade Lane.)
From Berlin and Stuttgart, passengers would gain one-stop connections via Dubai to 50 destinations across Emirates’ network, including cities in Australia, Indonesia, and Vietnam — markets not currently served by German carriers from Frankfurt or Munich. This could shift some long-haul traffic away from traditional hubs and benefit local economies through increased visitor spending.
The airline’s commitment to Germany is part of a broader strategy to strengthen its European footprint. Emirates already serves Frankfurt, Munich, Düsseldorf, and Hamburg. Adding Berlin and Stuttgart would give the carrier daily access to six German gateways, matching the scale of its operations in the UK and France.
Emirates has a history of working closely with German tourism boards and hospitality partners. The influx of high-value GCC tourists — known for extended stays and luxury spending — would provide a boost to hotels, retail, and MICE venues in both cities. (For context on regional tourism trends, see: Red Sea Global Expands Al Wajh Airport to 500,000 Annual Passengers Ahead of International Flights.)
The airline’s proposal remains subject to bilateral air traffic rights negotiations. Emirates has indicated it is ready to begin operations as soon as approval is granted, with no specific start date announced. The carrier continues to invest heavily in its fleet and network, including a recent sponsorship renewal with Real Madrid through 2031. (Read more: Emirates and Real Madrid Renew Shirt Sponsorship Through 2031.)
For travel agents and tour operators, the new routes would open up additional inventory for Germany–Dubai and beyond. The daily frequency offers flexibility for both leisure and corporate itineraries, particularly for business travellers connecting to Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.
Industry observers will watch the German government’s decision closely. If approved, the flights would mark one of the most significant long-haul expansions into Germany in recent years, reshaping competition on routes to the Gulf and beyond.
