Emirates partners with Tourism Western Australia to meet demand

Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, has announced a new partnership with the West Australian Government, through Tourism Western Australia following a surge in demand from UK visitors. In response to demand, Emirates has expanded capacity for its Dubai to Perth route with the airline recommencing a second daily service from 1 December 2024.

With increased interest in long-haul destinations, Emirates has experienced a 26% surge in UK passengers served in the last year. With a promising outlook for 2024, Emirates and Tourism Western Australia are poised for growth in the international market. The partnership will see Emirates and Tourism Western Australia work together to raise the profile of the region through collaboration and joint marketing campaigns. 

Embracing an extended stay in Western Australia

The UK is the largest source market for visitors to Western Australia. Year ending September 2023 saw 111,000 Brits arrive into Perth, spending GBP 170 million and extending the duration of their stays from an average of 22 nights in 2019 to 25 nights in 2023. This increase not only reflects a deeper connection with Western Australia but also presents opportunities for travellers to explore the many national parks, otherworldly landscapes and wildlife experiences the destination has to offer.

Experiences are continuing to grow in 2024 and for those looking to experience Aboriginal culture, can head to the Murujuga National Park which is nominated for a UNESCO World Heritage-listing and home to the world’s largest collection of petroglyphs. For those looking to experience the wildlife and unique tides of the Indian Ocean, Kimberley Expedition cruising in the north has welcomed new luxury operators Seabourn and Scenic. 

Accommodation across the state is also on the rise, from luxury branded hotels in the country’s sunniest capital city, to luxury lodges such as the new Wadjemup Lodge on the A Class reserve of Rottnest Island will open in late 2024. 

Travelling long haul in comfort

There continues to be a strong demand for long-haul travel in comfort, as shown by a 40% increase in Business Class bookings to Perth in 2023. 

Emirates is currently undergoing an extensive multi-billion dollar (over $2 billion) retrofit programme. Premium Economy bookings to the region have soared with an impressive 109% growth, and a further 24% increase anticipated for the cabin class in 2024.