Travel for less with the best budget airlines in the UAE
Travellers with budget constraints are now prioritising cost-effective options, turning to low-cost carriers in the UAE for international travel. These airlines offer cheap flights in the UAE without compromising too much on comfort or convenience. Whether you’re planning a quick regional trip or a long-awaited getaway to a land far away, here’s a guide to the best budget airlines UAE 2025 has to offer.
BUDGET AIRLINES IN THE UAE
Let’s have a look at the UAE-based airlines that are popular amongst travellers looking for affordable flying to international destinations from the UAE.
FLYDUBAI
One of the leading affordable airlines in the UAE, flydubai, has grown rapidly since its launch in 2008. What started with just three aircraft is now a robust network covering over 100 destinations. This UAE domestic budget airline also connects Dubai to cities across Africa, the Middle East, Southeast Asia and the Indian Subcontinent.
flydubai operates a streamlined fleet of 87 Boeing 737s, including 737-800s, MAX 8s and MAX 9s. Since 2008, the airline has made four major aircraft orders, including the region’s largest single-aisle deal at the 2017 Dubai Airshow. In 2023, flydubai placed its first wide-body order for 30 Boeing 787-9s, hinting at long-haul expansion plans.
Flydubai’s simple booking options via its app, website, travel shops and customer service line make trip planning effortless. With more routes expected and a growing fleet, it remains a top pick for low-cost travel UAE style.
AIR ARABIA
Based in Sharjah, Air Arabia is the pioneer among low-cost carriers in the UAE. Since 2003, it has offered travellers cheap flights in the UAE to over 170 destinations globally. With operations also extending to Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah, Air Arabia offers excellent coverage and flexibility.
AirArabia operates a state-of-the-art fleet of 65 Airbus A320 and nine A321 aircraft. To ensure continued focus on efficiency and sustainability, the airline placed a significant order with Airbus in 2019. This order for 120 new A320 Family aircraft (including 73 A320neos, 27 A321neos and 20 A321XLRs) will begin arriving from 2025.
Passengers can benefit from add-ons such as pre-booked baggage, seat selection, and hot meals via the Sky Café. If you’re hunting for UAE flight deals, Air Arabia is one to watch.
AIR ARABIA ABU DHABI
Air Arabia Abu Dhabi is a joint venture between Air Arabia and Etihad Airways, launched in 2020. Operating from Zayed International Airport, it offers budget-friendly flights to key cities across the Middle East, North Africa, Central Asia and Europe. With a growing network and competitive fares, it plays a vital role in expanding low-cost travel from the UAE capital.
WIZZ AIR ABU DHABI
Launched in 2021, Wizz Air Abu Dhabi is among the newest low-cost airlines in the UAE. It’s become a favourite for those chasing cheap flights in the UAE to Europe and Central Asia. The airline flies to budget-friendly destinations like Budapest, Belgrade, Muscat and Bari.
While there is no business class on offer, the trade-off is competitive fares and frequent promotions, making them ideal for low-cost travel enthusiasts in the UAE.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHICH INTERNATIONAL BUDGET AIRLINES TRAVEL TO THE UAE?
Alongside local carriers, Air India Express and Biman Bangladesh also offer low-cost flights to Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah.
ARE MEALS FREE ON THE UAE BUDGET AIRLINES?
Typically not. Meals can be pre-booked during ticket purchase for most UAE domestic budget airlines.
DOES WIZZ AIR ABU DHABI HAVE A BUSINESS CLASS?
No. Wizz Air focuses on keeping fares low and supports eco-friendly policies, including limiting business class travel due to higher emissions.
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE BUDGET-FRIENDLY DESTINATIONS FROM DUBAI?
Top picks from affordable holiday destinations from Dubai include Armenia, Georgia, Uzbekistan, Egypt and Turkey, popular destinations covered by budget airline routes in the UAE, offering great value for travellers.
This brings us to the end of our list of budget airlines in the UAE. These airlines have made it possible for many people to go to exotic locations without breaking the bank.
Craving a bit of luxury in the skies? You really can’t go wrong with Etihad Airways or Emirates—they know how to treat you well.
Tickets as cheap as AED 200 are available, depending on the time of booking, so keep checking these top airlines’ official websites and apps for the best deals. Passengers travelling from other destinations can also get a UAE transit visa if they wish to explore the sights and sounds of the emirates.
Some of the top travel agencies in Dubai provide budget-friendly vacation packages to your favourite destination. A long drive in the UAE, on the other hand, is the ideal way to spend a staycation and see the emirates and what they have to offer.
