Dubai-Helsinki direct flights could bring more UAE travellers to Finland, diplomat says

A new year-round Dubai–Helsinki direct flight could help close a travel gap between the UAE and Finland, an ambassador said. Finland saw about 28,000 tourists travel to the UAE last year, while only 854 Emirati travelers visited Finland, according to UAE Ambassador Amna Fikri to Finland and Estonia. Speaking ahead of the launch of Emirates’ service, she said the route may encourage more UAE residents and Emiratis to visit beyond Finland’s winter peak, with direct connectivity supporting travel in other seasons. Fikri also pointed to potential spillover into education and business, citing increased Emirati interest in studying in Finland and expectations of more reciprocal visits and economic talks.