Air Canada launches new Vancouver-Dubai service

An Air Canada Boeing 787 prepares for takeoff.
John Taggart from Sunbury on Thames, Middlesex, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Len Varley - Assistant Editor 4 Min Read
4 Min Read

Air Canada will further expand its international network with the addition of new, non-stop flights from its hub at Vancouver International Airport (YVR) to Dubai.

The move follows the recent forging of a bilateral air travel agreement between Canada and the United Arab Emirates which will allow increased travel between the two nations.

Expanded Dubai services


The new route will operate four times weekly beginning October 28, 2023 onboard Air Canada’s flagship Dreamliner fleet.

The carrier’s new Vancouver-Dubai flights will complement its current daily service between Toronto and Dubai.

“We are extremely pleased to add the only non-stop service linking Vancouver and Dubai, two iconic and vibrant global destinations,” said Mark Galardo, Senior Vice President, Network Planning and Revenue Management, at Air Canada.

“Dubai is one of the top destinations worldwide renowned for its extraordinary landmarks, rich culture and entertainment.” 

“Vancouver is a top cosmopolitan destination, and this new route offers additional ease to global visitors looking to experience BC’s spectacular natural beauty, range of outdoor activities and exciting adventures,” he noted.

“Adding this new transportation link from Dubai will allow visitors to more easily and efficiently experience all B.C. has to offer,” said Rob Fleming, British Columbia Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure.

“From the vibrancy of our globally recognized cities to the splendor of Super Natural British Columbia, Air Canada’s new service brings added global connections, that will directly benefit people throughout our province.” 

Access to extended international network


The bilateral travel agreement between the two countries not only facilitates a greater potential for cross traffic between Canada and the United Arab Emirates, but also allows access for onward connections through the Middle East.

Tamara Vrooman, President & CEO at Vancouver Airport Authority noted this benefit, saying:

“Direct service to Dubai, with convenient onward connection to southern India and other key destinations across the Middle East, will provide new opportunities for travel, education and access to global markets that will help meet the needs of our community and economy that supports it.”

“Direct air travel is the lifeline of modern business, allowing entrepreneurs to connect with clients, partners, and opportunities across the globe with speed and efficiency,” added Bridgitte Anderson, President and CEO of the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade.

“Connecting Vancouver directly with more destinations brings us closer, drives innovation, and encourages growth in our interconnected world. As such, the investment by Air Canada in this new route will certainly contribute positively to our region.”

The bilateral air travel agreement


A recently brokered air transport agreement between the United Arab Emirates and Canada has now seen major carriers of both participating nations increase the travel capacity.

AviationSource recently reported on the new air transport agreement which will see both countries reap vast economic benefits across a multitude of sectors and supply chains.

The expanded agreement effectively allows air transport movements to increase by 50 per cent between two partnering nations.

Last week, UAE carrier Emirates Airways became the first airline to announce the bolstering of Canada flight services with a daily offering from Dubai to Toronto.

Earlier this week, fellow Emirati airline Etihad Airways increased its existing services to daily flights between Dubai and Toronto.

The air travel market between Canada and the UAE has seen growth in recent years, with more Canadians traveling to the UAE for business, tourism, and to visit friends and family.

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