In a move that reaffirms their longstanding alliance, Emirates and Air Mauritius have renewed their strategic partnership, a collaboration that has now entered its 23rd year. The agreement includes a reciprocal codesharing arrangement on key international routes, alignment of frequent flyer programs, and expanded cooperation in cargo services—collectively aimed at strengthening connectivity, supporting tourism, and enhancing trade.
The renewed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed in Mauritius, reinforcing a relationship that first began in 2003. The partnership saw a significant expansion in 2013 with the introduction of codeshare flights, enabling smoother travel experiences for passengers. This latest development marks a deepened commitment to joint growth and enhanced service offerings.
Enhanced Connectivity and Seamless Travel
Under the renewed agreement, Air Mauritius will continue to place its code on select Emirates-operated flights connecting Mauritius to major international cities, including Cairo, Colombo, Karachi, Dammam, Jeddah, and Riyadh. Conversely, Emirates will maintain its codeshare on Air Mauritius’ service to Antananarivo, Madagascar, enhancing regional connectivity for passengers originating from or transiting through Mauritius.
This means travelers can book a single itinerary across multiple segments with either airline and enjoy seamless travel, including through-checking of luggage and coordinated schedules for smoother transfers.
Adnan Kazim, Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer at Emirates, highlighted the value of the collaboration:
“Our strategic, long-standing partnership with Air Mauritius continues to provide customers with benefits like seamless travel, single-ticket itineraries, and reciprocal frequent flyer perks. Our combined operations have contributed significantly to building a sustainable tourism economy in Mauritius.”
Joint Loyalty Rewards and Cargo Operations
One of the major highlights of the agreement is the continued cooperation between the frequent flyer programs—Emirates Skywards and Air Mauritius’ Kestrelflyer. Passengers can earn and redeem miles across both carriers, enhancing customer loyalty and improving travel flexibility.
On the logistics front, both airlines will strengthen their cargo handling collaboration. Emirates SkyCargo and Air Mauritius Cargo will work closely to optimize freight capacities, particularly on the busy Dubai-Mauritius route, contributing to economic development through trade facilitation.
Economic Impact and Tourism Development
Since launching operations in Mauritius in 2002, Emirates has played a pivotal role in the country’s tourism ecosystem. The airline has transported over 8.8 million passengers and more than 126,000 tonnes of cargo on its Mauritius route. Emirates currently operates 14 weekly flights between Dubai and Mauritius, all on the iconic Airbus A380, offering the only First Class service to the island.
This partnership’s economic impact is noteworthy. According to joint data, Emirates contributes approximately USD 900 million annually to the Mauritian economy. This includes USD 119 million directly from passenger services, USD 264 million through tourism receipts, and USD 530 million via indirect economic activity from tourism spending. Furthermore, Emirates supports around 3,600 jobs in Mauritius through direct and indirect employment.
Kremchand (Kishore) Beegoo, Chairman of Air Mauritius, emphasized the partnership’s importance to the national carrier’s mission:
“The renewal of our longstanding partnership with Emirates is a milestone that reflects the strength of our relationship. It allows us to better serve the Mauritian tourism sector and extend our reach to a wider global audience.”
A Strategic Alliance for Global Reach
The Emirates-Air Mauritius partnership is part of a broader strategy by Emirates to expand its global network through commercial cooperation. Emirates currently maintains agreements with 164 interline, codeshare, and intermodal partners, enabling access to nearly 1,800 cities worldwide.
This expansive network reach gives Air Mauritius passengers unprecedented access to international destinations via Emirates’ hub in Dubai, one of the world’s busiest and most connected airports.
Looking Forward
As Mauritius continues to position itself as a premium tourist and business destination, the renewed alliance with Emirates will play a critical role in realizing the country’s growth ambitions. The collaboration ensures the island remains connected to the world with world-class service, efficient logistics, and a robust tourism support system.
Both airlines have expressed commitment to future innovations, enhanced passenger experiences, and continued contributions to Mauritius’ economy and tourism landscape.
Conclusion
The renewal of the Emirates and Air Mauritius partnership is more than a commercial agreement—it is a strategic alignment poised to deliver tangible benefits to travelers, the economy, and the broader aviation sector. With expanded codeshare routes, loyalty program integration, and enhanced cargo logistics, this partnership exemplifies how airlines can work together to create lasting value for destinations and passengers alike.
