In a landmark moment for Kenya’s aviation and trade sectors, Gulf Air has made a triumphant return to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) today, reconnecting Nairobi with the Kingdom of Bahrain for the first time in over 13 years.
The inaugural flight from Bahrain was met with a spectacular water cannon salute on the JKIA runway, symbolizing the rebirth of a once-crucial route between East Africa and the Gulf region. Passengers were welcomed by top industry leaders and government officials in a colorful ceremonial reception held at the airport.
Among those in attendance were Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) Chairman Hon. Caleb Kositany, Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA) Chairman Dr. Joseph Kithitu, KAA Acting MD Nicholas Bodo, and JKIA Operations Manager Dr. Simon Peter, who represented Airport Manager Dr. Rose Koros.
Hon. Kositany hailed the return of Gulf Air as a strategic breakthrough, saying, “This reconnection between Nairobi and Bahrain is not just a matter of aviation—it’s about economic growth, opportunity, and positioning Kenya as a gateway between Africa, the Gulf, and beyond.”
Gulf Air’s reintroduction of the Bahrain-Nairobi route is expected to significantly boost business travel, tourism, and cultural exchange between the two regions. The direct air link offers a seamless connection for travelers looking to access markets in the Middle East, Asia, and Europe through Bahrain’s hub.
KATA Chairman Dr. Kithitu echoed the excitement, emphasizing the potential for tourism and commerce. “We foresee more tourist arrivals from the Gulf, increased outbound travel options for Kenyans, and stronger business engagement between our nations,” he said.
Gulf Air’s return adds to the growing list of international carriers investing in Kenya’s aviation market, positioning JKIA as a competitive hub on the continent. The route is expected to attract not only leisure travelers but also investors and members of the Kenyan diaspora with links to the Gulf.
With multiple flights planned per week, Gulf Air’s operations will further solidify JKIA’s role in regional and global connectivity—one flight at a time.
As the engines cooled and the Bahraini crew disembarked to thunderous applause, one thing was clear: the skies between Bahrain and Nairobi are open again, and the future of this partnership looks bright.
