STRATEGIC TOURISM PARTNERSHIP

Emirates and Wesgro have formalised a partnership to promote travel to Cape Town and the Western Cape from key global markets.

 

The agreement was signed on the sidelines of the World Travel Market and focuses on increasing visitor numbers through coordinated marketing and route development initiatives.

 

Target markets include the Gulf region, India, the Far East and other high-growth international segments identified by both organisations.

 

 

ALIGNMENT WITH REGIONAL GROWTH STRATEGY

The partnership supports the Western Cape’s Growth for Jobs Strategy, which positions tourism as a key economic driver.

Cape Town International Airport recorded 11.1 million two-way passengers in 2025, reflecting sustained growth in both domestic and international travel demand.

 

Tourism remains a significant contributor to employment and regional economic activity, with the agreement aimed at strengthening long-term demand through improved global connectivity.

 

 

EXPANDING AIR CONNECTIVITY

Emirates has indicated plans to introduce a third daily frequency to Cape Town, to be operated by the Airbus A350, subject to operational rollout.

 

The airline currently serves the route with a mix of aircraft, including the Boeing 777 and Airbus A380, making South Africa the only African country served by all three aircraft types in its fleet.

 

Emirates has operated flights to Cape Town since 2008, with Johannesburg services dating back to 1995.

 

 

CARGO AND TRADE LINKAGES

Beyond passenger traffic, Emirates SkyCargo plays a role in supporting South African exports, particularly perishables such as fresh produce, seafood and flowers.

 

The network enables rapid global distribution, with transit times typically ranging between 24 and 48 hours, supporting both agricultural and retail supply chains.

 

 

OPERATIONAL CONTEXT

The agreement reflects a broader trend in which airlines and regional agencies are aligning route development with tourism and trade objectives.

 

For Cape Town and the Western Cape, increased air connectivity remains central to sustaining inbound tourism growth and strengthening links to global markets.