Vietnam Airlines and Emirates have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to develop a deeper commercial cooperation between both carriers. Expanding the scope of the longstanding interline partnership marks a significant step between the two carriers and reinforces their shared commitment to strengthen connectivity between Vietnam and the UAE.

The MoU was sealed on the sidelines of the Vietnam – UAE Business Forum, held at the Hilton Hotel Palm in Dubai. The MoU sets the framework to expand the current cooperation in place between both airlines. This includes enhancing connectivity on routes beyond the existing interline. The airlines will also enter exploratory discussions around potential collaborations across cargo and technical services to create seamless experiences for travelers.

Nguyen Chien Thang, Vietnam Airlines’ Executive Vice President, said: “This MoU with Emirates is a significant milestone for Vietnam Airlines. The cooperation allows us to unleash the combined power of our networks as Vietnam Airlines seeks to leverage our international presence and provide our passengers with enhanced flexibility and convenience. We are excited about the possibilities this partnership brings in strengthening the ties between the two airlines as well as the two countries, allowing our passengers to explore the most sought-after tourist destinations in Southeast Asia, the UAE and beyond.”

Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer, commented: “Enhancing our partnerships with like-minded partners like Vietnam Airlines is integral to our core commercial strategy to better connect customers across points beyond our own extensive network. As our partnership develops, I am confident that we will be able to jointly offer our customers unmatched access and connectivity. Vietnam is also a market that presents tremendous opportunities to boost tourism and trade as a key hub in Southeast Asia, and Emirates supports the UAE government’s ongoing efforts to elevate its existing economic ties with Vietnam. Our decades-long cooperation with Vietnam Airlines has enabled us to enhance connectivity between Vietnam and Dubai, and we are pleased to have the opportunity to explore further elevating this partnership.”

With its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and rapidly growing economy, Vietnam is increasingly attracting travelers and businesses from around the world. The deepening of this partnership reflects the broader efforts of both Vietnam Airlines and Emirates to foster greater tourism and business links.

Vietnam and the UAE established diplomatic relations on August 1, 1993. Over the past 30 years, the friendship and cooperation between Vietnam and the UAE have continued to develop positively across multiple fields, including politics, diplomacy, trade, investment, labor, and tourism. The two countries began negotiations for the Vietnam-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) in June 2023 and have agreed to complete negotiations soon to move toward signing the CEPA. The potential for economic and trade cooperation between Vietnam and the UAE is considered substantial, as the two economies have complementary strengths.

About Vietnam Airlines

Vietnam Airlines, a member of Skyteam Alliance, is the flag carrier of Vietnam, connecting the world’s most thriving destinations with nearly 100 routes to 22 domestic and 31 international destinations in 18 countries. The carrier is recognized as one of the region’s leading airlines thanks to its modern fleet and its commitment towards innovation, digitalization and development — earning it international acclaim as validated by numerous prestigious awards including Top 20 World’s Best Airline by Airline Ratings (2023), Global 5 Star Airline by APEX (2023); Skytrax’s 4 Star Airline for four consecutive years; numerous awards by the World Travel Awards… In addition, Vietnam Airlines also actively implements many sustainable development solutions. Not only raising awareness and encouraging innovation, the airline hopes to join hands with airlines around the world to shape the future of the global aviation industry, together reaching net-zero emissions by 2050. Positioning itself as a modern carrier characterized by high quality services embedded with Vietnamese unique cultural identity, Vietnam Airlines aims to be designated as a 5-star, leading Asian airline.

About Emirates

Emirates, established in 1985, is one of the world’s largest and most recognized international airlines. Headquartered in Dubai, Emirates operates a modern fleet of over 260 aircraft, serving more than 140 destinations across six continents. The airline is renowned for its commitment to delivering exceptional customer service and its focus on innovation, from inflight experiences to sustainability efforts. As a pioneer in the aviation industry, Emirates continuously integrates advanced technologies and sustainable practices to enhance its operations and reduce its environmental impact. Over the years, the airline has played a key role in positioning Dubai as a global aviation hub while championing sustainability initiatives in alignment with the UAE’s vision for a greener future. For more information on Emirates sustainability initiatives, visit here.