In a strategic move to bolster Vietnam’s presence on the global tourism map, Emirates and Sun Group have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly promote inbound travel and expand visitor traffic through collaborative marketing and route development initiatives.

The agreement was signed on April 30, 2025, at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in Dubai by Orhan Abbas, Emirates’ Senior Vice President of Commercial Operations for the Far East, and Nguyen Vu Quynh Anh, Deputy CEO of Sun Group and CEO of Sun Entertainment & Hospitality Group.

Under the partnership, Emirates and Sun Group will launch joint campaigns to promote Vietnam as a premier global travel destination. Plans include organising familiarisation trips for media and travel agents from key source markets, and offering promotional support and incentives for tour operators.

Expanded connectivity with Emirates’ new Da Nang route

As part of its Southeast Asia expansion, Emirates will launch four weekly flights to Da Nang starting June 2, marking the city as the airline’s third gateway in Vietnam. The new route complements Emirates' existing 21 weekly flights to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

Orhan Abbas noted: “Vietnam’s rising tourism appeal and our new route to Da Nang show our commitment to giving travelers more options and showcasing Vietnam’s unique culture, heritage, and landscapes.”

Nguyen Vu Quynh Anh added: “Emirates is more than a transport provider - it’s a cultural ambassador. With its global media reach, Emirates will promote Vietnam’s most iconic destinations, especially those where Sun Group has developed landmark attractions, such as Ba Na Hills and the Golden Bridge in Da Nang, the Kiss Bridge and Sunset Town in Phu Quoc, and more.”

The MoU also outlines Sun Group’s commitment to curating tailored experiences for Emirates passengers at its premier destinations, from Sun World theme parks to luxury resorts.

“The partnership between two premium brands will advance Vietnam’s tourism and elevate its regional status,” said Quynh Anh. “With this collaboration, Emirates passengers will enjoy a seamless journey - from the sky to the ground - filled with enriching and unforgettable experiences.”

Sun Group: A powerhouse of Vietnam’s tourism development

Founded in 2007, Sun Group is widely recognized as one of Vietnam’s leading private tourism developers and has been named Asia’s Leading Integrated Tourism Group by the World Travel Awards. The group is credited with creating tourism ecosystems that blend world-class accommodations, entertainment, natural beauty, and cultural heritage.

Notable developments include the InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort - three-time World’s Leading Luxury Resort winner - and the Golden Bridge at Sun World Ba Na Hills, now a symbol of Vietnamese tourism. Sun Group’s ventures extend across Phu Quoc, Sa Pa, Ha Long, and more.

The group is also the official Destination Partner of the Michelin Guide in Vietnam, helping elevate the international profile of Vietnamese cuisine.

Details on Emirates’ new Da Nang route

The new Da Nang route, operated by Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, offers a two-class configuration with 35 business class and 368 economy class seats. Flight EK370 will depart Dubai at 9:00, arrive in Bangkok at 18:25, then depart Bangkok at 20:10 to reach Da Nang at 21:50. The return flight, EK371, leaves Da Nang at 23:30, arriving in Bangkok at 1:10 and continuing to Dubai at 3:40, landing at 6:50 (all local times).

This enhanced connectivity, combined with Sun Group’s attractions, is poised to attract more high-end travelers and contribute meaningfully to Vietnam’s economy and tourism growth.

PV