The Traveling Taylors

With seven modern airports and its strategic location between Europe, Asia, and Africa, the United Arab Emirates is a major global air hub. But with so many airline options, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re after luxury, affordability, or regional connectivity, this guide breaks down the major airlines flying to the UAE to help you book smarter.

Flag Carriers: Emirates and Etihad Airways

1. Emirates (Dubai)

• Known for: Long-haul luxury, A380 experience, top-tier service
• Hub: Dubai International Airport (DXB), Terminal 3
• Network: 150+ destinations globally
• Perks: Free checked bags, onboard entertainment, Dubai stopover deals

1. Etihad Airways (Abu Dhabi)

• Known for: Premium service, modern fleet, sustainability focus
• Hub: Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH)
• Network: 120+ global destinations
• Perks: Chauffeur service (business/first), high-quality economy cabin, codeshares with global alliances

Low-Cost Carriers Flying to the UAE

3. Flydubai (Dubai)

• Dubai’s budget-friendly airline with an expanding international network
• Great for short- and medium-haul flights from Europe, Central Asia, and the Middle East

3. Air Arabia (Sharjah)

• The UAE’s first low-cost airline, offering affordable flights to destinations across the Middle East, North Africa, Asia, and Europe

3. Air Arabia Abu Dhabi

• Joint venture between Etihad and Air Arabia; best for budget travelers flying into the capital

Other Regional and Global Airlines Serving the UAE

• Major global airlines such as Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, British Airways, Lufthansa, Singapore Airlines, Saudia, IndiGo, and Thai Airways also operate direct flights to UAE cities including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah.
• Many of these airlines offer competitive pricing, particularly on multi-leg routes or as part of airline alliances (Star Alliance, Oneworld, SkyTeam).

Airport Overview in the UAE

• Dubai International (DXB) – Busiest airport in the Middle East, hub for Emirates and Flydubai
• Abu Dhabi International (AUH) – Modern, quieter, and home to Etihad Airways
• Sharjah International (SHJ) – Main hub for Air Arabia, less crowded alternative
• Other airports include Ras Al Khaimah (RKT), Al Ain (AAN), and Fujairah (FJR), mostly used for regional travel

Choosing the Right Airline for Your Trip

• For luxury: Emirates or Etihad
• For savings: Flydubai or Air Arabia
• For connections: Major global airlines via alliance hubs
• For offbeat entry points: Consider Sharjah or Ras Al Khaimah to avoid Dubai crowds

Final Thoughts on Airlines Flying to the UAE

With top-tier luxury carriers and reliable budget options, flying to the United Arab Emirates is more accessible than ever. Whether you’re traveling for a layover, vacation, or long-term stay, there’s an airline (and airport) to match your travel style and budget.

For more help planning your journey, don’t miss our First-Timer’s UAE Guide!