zaro

How many airlines are in the UAE?

Published in UAE Aviation 3 mins read

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is home to 6 national airlines. This robust number reflects the nation's significant investment in and reliance on its vibrant aviation sector, which serves as a critical link for global travel and commerce.

The UAE's aviation landscape is well-developed, boasting 8 international airports that support an extensive network of flights connecting the country to destinations worldwide. These national carriers play a pivotal role in strengthening the UAE's position as a major global aviation hub.

National Carriers of the UAE

Based on the latest available information, the six national carriers operating out of the UAE are:

  • Emirates Airlines: A globally recognized full-service carrier headquartered in Dubai, renowned for its extensive international network and luxury travel experience. It is one of the largest airlines in the world by fleet size and passenger-kilometres flown.
  • Etihad Airways: The national airline of the UAE, based in Abu Dhabi. Etihad offers a wide array of global connections, focusing on premium services and a comprehensive network.
  • Flydubai: A low-cost airline based in Dubai, operating from Dubai International Airport. Flydubai serves a large number of destinations across the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and Europe, offering an affordable travel alternative.
  • Air Arabia: Recognized as the first and largest low-cost carrier in the Middle East and North Africa. Air Arabia operates primarily from Sharjah International Airport, providing budget-friendly travel options across a vast regional network.
  • Air Arabia Abu Dhabi: A joint venture between Air Arabia and Etihad Airways, based in Abu Dhabi. This airline expands the low-cost travel options available from the capital, complementing Etihad's full-service offerings.
  • Wizz Air Abu Dhabi: An ultra-low-cost airline established as a joint venture with ADQ. Operating from Abu Dhabi, it focuses on connecting the UAE with various destinations primarily in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, offering highly competitive fares.

Overview of UAE National Airlines

To provide a clearer perspective on these carriers, here's a summary:

Airline Name Primary Hub Airline Type Key Focus / Market Served
Emirates Airlines Dubai (DXB) Full-Service Global long-haul, premium travel
Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi (AUH) Full-Service Global long-haul, comprehensive network
Flydubai Dubai (DXB) Low-Cost Regional & mid-haul, diverse destination portfolio
Air Arabia Sharjah (SHJ) Low-Cost Regional & short-haul, MENA region
Air Arabia Abu Dhabi Abu Dhabi (AUH) Low-Cost Regional & short-haul, budget-friendly from capital
Wizz Air Abu Dhabi Abu Dhabi (AUH) Ultra Low-Cost Europe, Middle East, Africa; highly competitive fares

The strategic combination of full-service and low-cost carriers, supported by advanced airport infrastructure, ensures that the UAE's aviation sector can cater to a wide spectrum of travel needs, reinforcing its role as a vital global aviation hub.