Qatar Airways Unleashes Biggest Africa Flight Expansion of 2026 with New Port Sudan Route, Full Returns to Seychelles, Kigali and Daily Marrakesh Services Redefine Travel From Doha Worldwide

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June 3, 2026 13:49 GMT+5:30

Qatar Airways has unveiled a sweeping expansion of its African air network for Summer 2026, marking one of the most significant developments in intercontinental connectivity in recent years. From its global hub at Hamad International Airport (DOH), the airline will resume key services, launch new routes and significantly increase flight frequencies to several major African destinations. The expanded network includes a new service to Port Sudan (Sudan), fully reinstated flights to Seychelles and Kigali (Rwanda), and the return of daily flights to Marrakesh (Morocco). Alongside these changes, Qatar Airways will expand service to cities including Cairo, Cape Town, Dar es Salaam, Alexandria, Lusaka, Harare, Maputo and Durban, reflecting strong demand for travel between Africa and global markets. This expansion forms part of Qatar Airways’ official strategy to grow its global footprint to more than 160 destinations worldwide.

Flights to Seychelles and Kigali Return With Increased Frequency

Beginning 16 June 2026, Qatar Airways will resume scheduled flights to Seychelles International Airport (SEZ), operating four weekly services and restoring access to this renowned Indian Ocean archipelago. The reinstated service enables travellers to connect to Seychelles through Doha from key regions in Europe, Asia and the Middle East. In parallel, a twice‑weekly service to Kigali International Airport (KGL) will also resume, reconnecting Rwanda’s capital with the airline’s expanding global schedule. These reinstated services support growing tourism trends and meet renewed demand for travel to and from East Africa, contributing to enhanced regional connectivity.

Marrakesh Daily Flights Reinstate High‑Frequency Access

1 July 2026 will mark the return of daily Qatar Airways flights to Marrakesh Menara Airport (RAK) in Morocco, restoring consistent and reliable service to one of North Africa’s most dynamic cultural and tourism hubs. Daily flights provide travellers with greater flexibility, enabling a wide range of itinerary options via Doha, including seamless onward connections to destinations across Europe, Asia and the Americas. The reinstated daily service enhances business and leisure travel opportunities between Morocco and other continents, reflecting Marrakech’s strategic importance in international travel.

Strategic New Route: Doha to Port Sudan Takes Off in July

A major highlight of Qatar Airways’ African network overhaul is the launch of three weekly flights between Doha (DOH) and Port Sudan International Airport (PZU), starting 2 July 2026. This route represents a new direct connection for travellers to northeastern Sudan, expanding the airline’s footprint into a previously under‑served market. Scheduled flights will operate every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, offering convenient travel options for passengers and cargo alike. The new Port Sudan service enhances regional accessibility while strengthening air travel infrastructure within northeastern Africa.

Frequency Uplifts Transform Key African Corridors

In addition to new and reinstated flights, Qatar Airways is increasing frequency on several high‑demand African routes to provide travellers more choice, flexibility and scheduling options. Upgrades include:

• Alexandria (HBE), Egypt: From 3 to 7 weekly flights.
• Cairo (CAI), Egypt: From 28 to 35 weekly flights.
• Cape Town (CPT), South Africa: From 7 to 10 weekly flights.
• Dar es Salaam (DAR), Tanzania: From 3 to 7 weekly flights.
• Lusaka (LUN) – Harare (HRE): Combined services from 5 to 7 weekly flights.
• Maputo (MPM) – Durban (DUR): Increased from 4 to 7 weekly flights.

These frequency increases reflect strengthened demand across multiple African markets and enable improved connectivity through Qatar Airways’ Doha hub. More flights also mean better alignment with global schedules, offering greater flexibility for international travellers connecting through the Middle East.

Doha Hub Reinforces Global Connectivity to Africa and Beyond

The network enhancements reinforce Hamad International Airport (DOH) as a major intercontinental transfer hub connecting Africa with global destinations in the Middle East, Europe, Asia and Americas. Increased flight volumes and reinstated routes enable efficient transfers and more seamless journey planning for travellers. Qatar Airways’ commitment to expanding its African network reflects broader strategic priorities to strengthen air connectivity, support economic links, and enhance the accessibility of African destinations on the world stage.

Supporting Tourism, Trade and Economic Integration

The expanded flight network supports tourism recovery, business travel growth and improved cargo links across African markets. Destinations including Seychelles, Rwanda, Morocco, Egypt, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Sudan are set to benefit from enhanced accessibility. Increased flights encourage international visits, foster trade flows, and support regional economic development by connecting local markets to global business networks.

Travel Options Expanded for Passengers in 2026

With bookings now open through qatarairways.com and the airline’s mobile application, travellers planning journeys across Africa from Summer 2026 can expect unprecedented access to a wide range of destinations, improved flight options and enhanced schedule flexibility. The comprehensive expansion positions Qatar Airways as a pivotal air carrier for African travel and global connectivity, strengthening the continent’s position within the global aviation network.

Image: Qatar Airways