Air Arabia and flydubai are the UAE's two largest low-cost carriers, and between them they cover most budget routes from the country. They differ mainly in where they are based, which decides which is more convenient for you.
Hubs
Air Arabia is based at Sharjah, with a second UAE hub at Ras Al Khaimah and a joint venture in Abu Dhabi. flydubai flies from Dubai International Terminal 2, with some Emirates codeshare flights from Terminal 3. If you live in the northern emirates, Sharjah or Ras Al Khaimah may be closer than DXB.
Network and fleet
Air Arabia flies Airbus A320-family aircraft across South Asia, the GCC, Egypt, the Caucasus and, on newer aircraft, some European cities. flydubai flies Boeing 737s to the Gulf, South Asia, the Caucasus, Africa and Eastern Europe, and its Emirates codeshare can connect you neatly onto the wider Emirates network.
Baggage and fees
Both sell their cheapest fares as hand-baggage only and charge for checked bags, so the golden rule applies to each: add baggage at booking, where it is cheaper than at the airport, and compare the final total, not the lead fare.
Who should fly which
- You live near Sharjah or Ras Al Khaimah: Air Arabia is often closer and cheaper.
- You live near Dubai: flydubai from Terminal 2 is convenient.
- You want to connect onto Emirates: flydubai's codeshare helps.
- You are flying its core South Asia or GCC routes: check Air Arabia first for price.
Compare both using the search above, or see the Air Arabia and flydubai guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Air Arabia or flydubai cheaper?
It depends on the route and date. Air Arabia flies from Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah, flydubai from Dubai Terminal 2, and the cheaper of the two varies, so compare both for your trip.
Do Air Arabia and flydubai include baggage?
Usually not in the lowest fare, which is hand-baggage only on both. Add checked baggage at booking, where it is cheaper than at the airport.