Gulf Air’s Return to Nairobi Marks a New Dawn for Travel and Trade
It’s finally happening – Gulf Air has made a remarkable return to Nairobi after more than a decade, and the buzz around this move is impossible to ignore. On June 3, 2025, the Bahraini national carrier celebrated its inaugural flight to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO), reviving a critical air corridor between Kenya and the Kingdom of Bahrain. The excitement was palpable, from the water salute on landing to the ceremonial reception that followed. It’s more than just an airline route; this is a significant strategic development for both regions.
Think about it: since 2012, travelers between Bahrain and Kenya have had to rely on connecting flights through other Gulf hubs like Dubai, Doha, or Istanbul. Now, with five direct flights per week on Gulf Air’s efficient Airbus A320neo fleet, passengers can look forward to shorter travel times, lower costs, and seamless connectivity.
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This isn’t just a win for leisure travellers – it’s a game changer for businesses. Gulf Air’s CEO, Jeffrey Goh, made it clear that Africa is part of the airline’s long-term vision. Nairobi, already a growing aviation and economic hub in East Africa, is a natural fit for this expansion. The route opens new doors for Kenyan exporters, especially those dealing in fresh produce, tea, and flowers, which are in high demand across the Gulf. Imagine flowers picked in the morning in Kenya landing in Bahrain the same evening – fresh, fast, and profitable.
Beyond commerce, this is a human story. For Kenyans working in Bahrain and other Gulf states, this route is a lifeline. No more exhausting layovers or multiple ticket bookings. One such person, Fatuma Hassan, a Gulf Air flight attendant originally from Kenya, summed it up emotionally: “This isn’t just a flight for me—it’s coming home.” That sentiment echoes with many diaspora families who now feel more connected to home than ever.
There’s also the ripple effect on tourism. Kenya, with its world-famous wildlife safaris, luxury beach resorts, and cultural experiences, is already a top destination. With Gulf Air’s direct flights, travelers from Bahrain and beyond can now access the Maasai Mara or Diani Beach with far more ease. And with the annual Great Migration approaching, this could not have come at a better time for the tourism industry.
Even local entrepreneurs are already seeing the benefits. Salome Maina, a Nairobi-based businesswoman, shared her enthusiasm after flying on the inaugural flight. “My ticket was cheaper, and the connections to Asia through Bahrain are smoother. This simplifies how I run my business globally,” she said.
Ultimately, Gulf Air’s return to Nairobi is a multifaceted boost. It enhances trade, creates competition in the airline market, strengthens people-to-people ties, and positions both Bahrain and Kenya for greater regional influence. Whether you’re a business traveler, a tourist, or someone longing for a direct path home, this new route represents progress. Nairobi’s aviation story just got more exciting – and the sky is the limit.
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