The President of the Republic of Seychelles, Dr Patrick Herminie, has concluded a series of high-level engagements in Dubai that deliver tangible gains for the country’s connectivity, tourism sector, and long-term development agenda, underscoring the strength of Seychelles’ strategic partnership with the United Arab Emirates.
A central outcome of the visit is the full restoration of daily air services by Emirates as of today, 1 May 2026, returning to pre–Gulf war frequency. The move is a strong signal of renewed market confidence and is expected to bolster visitor arrivals, trade links, and Seychelles’ global accessibility at a critical juncture for the tourism-dependent economy.
During his meeting with His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Emirates, President Herminie reaffirmed the importance of the airline as a cornerstone of Seychelles’ international connectivity. Marking nearly two decades of operations since 2005, the partnership continues to play a defining role in linking the island nation to key global markets. Emirates accounted for approximately 32% of visitor arrivals in 2025 and 22% in early 2026, reinforcing its position as a principal driver of tourism flows.
The President expressed appreciation for Emirates’ consistent support during periods of disruption, including its early resumption of flights following the reopening of borders after the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as its responsiveness amid recent regional challenges. He also highlighted the broader economic contribution of the airline, including employment opportunities for Seychellois nationals and sustained investor confidence in the destination.
Discussions further underscored the depth of cooperation between Air Seychelles and Emirates, spanning codeshare operations, enhanced passenger services, and joint marketing initiatives with Tourism Seychelles. Both sides agreed to explore expanded collaboration aimed at diversifying source markets and strengthening Seychelles’ positioning as a high-value, sustainable tourism destination.
Complementing these outcomes, President Herminie held strategic talks with Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, focusing on the advancement of UAE-supported development initiatives in Seychelles.
In a significant reassurance, the UAE confirmed its continued commitment to key infrastructure projects despite ongoing regional pressures. These include the development of four desalination plants to enhance water security, the Anse Royale sports complex aimed at community development, and the housing project in Grand Anse Mahe to address growing housing demand. The continuity of these initiatives signals confidence in Seychelles’ long-term development trajectory.
The discussions also opened a forward-looking avenue for energy cooperation. Preliminary engagements were held on a potential bilateral arrangement that would allow Seychelles to explore the direct procurement of oil from the UAE, following its withdrawal from OPEC. Formal negotiations on this prospective agreement are expected to commence by the end of the month, with the potential to strengthen energy security and economic resilience.
Collectively, the engagements reflect a calibrated diplomatic approach focused on delivering measurable national benefits, enhanced connectivity, sustained tourism growth, infrastructure development, and prospective energy cooperation. They also reaffirm the depth and maturity of Seychelles–UAE relations, anchored in mutual trust, shared economic interests, and a commitment to long-term sustainability.