NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of The Bahamas have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly promote tourism to the Caribbean. The partnership aims to support the development of The Bahamas’ tourism and trade sectors. The agreement was formalized at Arabian Travel Market 2025 in Dubai.
The MoU was signed by Adnan Kazim, Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer of Emirates, and His Excellency Tony Joudi, Ambassador of The Bahamas to the UAE, the State of Qatar, and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Also in attendance were Thierry Aucoc, Emirates’ Senior Vice President of Commercial Operations (West); Anthony Stewart, Senior Director of Emerging Markets, Ministry of Tourism (Bahamas); Eugene Poitier, Deputy Chief of Mission at The Bahamas Embassy in the UAE; Pretia Dean, First Secretary at The Bahamas Embassy in the UAE; and Michael Paddon, government representative from the Office of the Prime Minister of The Bahamas.
Adnan Kazim commented:
“We are pleased to collaborate with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of The Bahamas to promote the country as a premier leisure destination for our global customers. Through this partnership, Emirates aims to contribute to The Bahamas’ tourism strategy and support its efforts to grow the national economy.”
He added:
“While Emirates currently serves 14 destinations in the US and Canada, our partnerships with United and Air Canada allow us to extend our reach and provide convenient connections for travellers heading to Nassau via key points in North America.”
His Excellency Tony Joudi underscored the significance of the partnership:
“We are grateful for Emirates’ unwavering support and commend the airline’s leadership for its vision in creating a globally respected network and exceptional travel service. This collaboration aligns closely with the Ministry of Tourism’s international strategic plan.”
He continued:
“The partnership reflects a shared commitment to strengthening The Bahamas’ global connectivity and tourism appeal, which will in turn support economic growth and enhance the country’s international presence.”
Under the terms of the MoU, Emirates and The Bahamas will collaborate on joint marketing initiatives across key markets to boost tourist arrivals. Promotional efforts will include special travel packages, giveaways, and marketing support for tour operators and travel agents across Emirates’ network.
The agreement also includes support for media and trade familiarization trips aimed at showcasing The Bahamas’ attractions to targeted audiences.
Comprising 16 major islands and over 100,000 square miles of the world’s clearest waters, The Bahamas is one of the Caribbean’s top travel destinations. Its white-sand beaches and vibrant cultural heritage attract holidaymakers from around the globe.
Emirates currently operates flights to 12 cities in the US, in addition to Toronto and Montreal in Canada. Through its codeshare partnerships with United Airlines and Air Canada, Emirates customers can connect to Nassau via Houston or Toronto, respectively.
