Air Arabia

Air Arabia stands out as a pioneer in the aviation industry, recognized as the first and largest low-cost carrier in the Middle East and North Africa. Since taking to the skies, the airline has revolutionized travel within the region by offering a reliable, efficient, and affordable experience that places a high priority on value for money. With a commitment to connecting people across borders, it serves a vast network that spans multiple continents, bridging cultures and economies with remarkable ease. Operating primarily from the United Arab Emirates, the carrier continues to expand its footprint, making air travel accessible to millions of passengers every year.

A History of Innovation
Established in 2003 by an Amiri decree issued by His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Air Arabia introduced the low-cost business model to the MENA region. Over the past two decades, it has grown from a single base in Sharjah to a multi-hub international carrier. The airline focuses on a mission to provide "Pay for what you need" services, allowing passengers to customize their journey according to their budget and preferences.

Modern Fleet and Safety
The airline operates one of the youngest fleets in the world, consisting entirely of Airbus A320 and A321 neo-LR aircraft. This uniform fleet strategy ensures high operational efficiency and easier maintenance. Passengers often appreciate the cabin configuration, which offers one of the most generous seat pitches of any economy cabin in the region. Safety is a core value, with the airline maintaining an impeccable maintenance record and adhering to the highest international safety standards.

Global Network and Key Markets
Air Arabia connects travelers to major commercial and cultural centers across the Middle East, North Africa, Asia, and Europe. Its extensive network includes frequent flights to popular destinations such as Doha, Cairo, and Moscow. The airline also serves key pilgrimage and business routes, including flights to Jeddah, Riyadh, and vibrant Asian hubs like Bangkok and Delhi.

Passenger Experience and Rewards
Beyond affordable fares, the airline enhances the travel experience with its loyalty program, AirRewards, which is touted as the first and most generous loyalty program in the region for a low-cost carrier. Onboard, passengers can enjoy the "Sky Cafe" for refreshments and "Sky Time," a free in-flight streaming service that provides entertainment directly to personal devices. These features, combined with a focus on punctuality and customer service, have earned the airline numerous accolades, including awards for operational excellence and being named the best low-cost airline in the region multiple times.

As a carrier headquartered in the United Arab Emirates, Air Arabia offers extensive and accessible support for travelers within the country. Whether you are in Sharjah, Dubai, or Abu Dhabi, connecting with the airline is straightforward thanks to a network of local sales offices and a 24/7 call center dedicated to assisting with bookings, modifications, and general inquiries.

Official Website
For the most direct access to flight schedules, managing bookings, and online check-in, visit the official regional website:
www.airarabia.com

Contact Information

• General Inquiries & Call Center (UAE): +971 6 558 0000 (Available 24/7)
• Ticket Booking & Reservations: +971 6 508 8888
• Email Support: contactus@airarabia.com
• Mobile App: "Air Arabia" (Available on iOS, Android, and Huawei AppGallery)

Social Media Channels
Stay updated with the latest offers and announcements through their official social media platforms:

• Facebook: facebook.com/airarabiagroup
• X (Twitter): twitter.com/airarabiagroup
• Instagram: instagram.com/airarabiagroup
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/air-arabia

Local Offices in United Arab Emirates
If you prefer in-person assistance, you can visit one of the airline's sales offices or airport centers:

• Sharjah (Head Office): Building A1, Next to Cargo Entrance, Sharjah International Airport.
• Sharjah (Sales Office): Khan Saheb Building, Industrial Area 10, near Geeco R/A.
• Dubai Office: Shop No. GC27B, Ground Floor, Al Ghurair Centre, Deira, Dubai. (Phone: +971 4 388 0788)
• Abu Dhabi Office: Hamdan Bin Mohammed Street, Al Danah, Zone 1, Abu Dhabi. (Phone: +971 2 815 3455)

Emergency & 24/7 Support
The main call center number (+971 6 558 0000) operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, ensuring that travelers can receive immediate assistance with urgent flight changes or missed connections at any time.

Traveling with Air Arabia is designed to be as efficient and customizable as possible, allowing passengers to pay only for the luggage they need. As a low-cost carrier, the airline operates on a "pay for weight" concept for checked baggage, which offers significant savings compared to traditional models. Understanding these allowances before you pack can ensure a smooth journey through Sharjah and beyond.

Carry-on Baggage Allowance
Every passenger flying with Air Arabia is entitled to a generous free hand baggage allowance. This enables travelers to keep essential items close at hand without extra cost.

• Weight Limit: Each passenger is permitted one carry-on bag weighing up to 10 kg.
• Dimensions: The standard maximum dimensions for the bag are 55cm x 40cm x 20cm, including wheels, pockets, and handles.
• Infants: Parents traveling with an infant (under two years old) are entitled to one additional standard-sized bag for items required during the flight.

Checked Baggage Options
Unlike many legacy carriers that offer a fixed allowance, Air Arabia allows you to select the exact baggage weight that suits your travel needs. You can pre-book your checked luggage allowance online or via the call center, which is considerably cheaper than paying at the airport.

• Weight Tiers: Passengers can choose from allowances of 20 kg, 30 kg, or 40 kg. There is no limit on the number of pieces as long as the total weight does not exceed the purchased allowance.
• Maximum Weight Per Bag: For health and safety reasons regarding baggage handling, the maximum weight for any single piece of luggage is 32 kg. If your total allowance is 40 kg, you must split the weight into at least two bags.
• Airport Rates: If you do not pre-book baggage, purchasing allowance at the airport counter will be charged at a higher rate and is subject to availability.

Excess Baggage and Fees
If your luggage exceeds the allowance you have pre-booked, excess baggage rates will apply at the airport. These fees can be substantial, so it is highly recommended to weigh your bags before leaving home. If you realize you need more space before your flight, you can upgrade your baggage allowance online up to 12 hours before departure to secure the best rates.

Special Baggage Items
Travelers wishing to transport special items such as sports equipment or musical instruments must follow specific guidelines. These items are not included in the standard baggage allowance and usually incur a separate handling fee.

• Sports Equipment: Items like golf bags, bicycles, and surfboards can be transported but should be pre-booked. They must be properly packed to prevent damage.
• Musical Instruments: Smaller instruments may be carried in the cabin if they fit within the hand baggage dimensions. Larger instruments must be checked in as special baggage or, in some cases, may require the purchase of an extra seat.

Restricted and Prohibited Items
To ensure the safety of all passengers, certain items are strictly prohibited in both checked and carry-on luggage. Always check the latest regulations before packing.

• Forbidden Everywhere: Flammable liquids, gases, explosives, corrosive materials, and poisons.
• Cabin Restrictions: Sharp objects (scissors, knives), tools, and liquids exceeding 100ml per container are not allowed in hand luggage.
• Lithium Batteries: Spare lithium batteries and power banks must be carried in your hand luggage only and are strictly prohibited in checked bags.

Tips for Efficient Packing
To make your journey stress-free, consider these packing strategies:

• Label Everything: attach a durable luggage tag with your name, phone number, and email address to every bag. placing a copy of your contact details inside the bag is also a smart backup.
• Distribute Weight: If you are traveling with companions, consider distributing weight across multiple bags to avoid exceeding the 32 kg single-item limit.
• Secure Fragile Items: Wrap breakables in soft clothing and place them in the center of your checked bag for maximum cushioning.

Traveling with pets requires careful planning, as Air Arabia has specific policies designed to ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers. Unlike many international carriers, the airline generally does not permit live animals such as cats, dogs, or birds to travel in the aircraft cabin or as checked baggage. However, consistent with the cultural heritage of the United Arab Emirates and the wider region, there is a notable exception for falcons.

Falcons in the Cabin
Air Arabia is one of the few airlines that welcomes falcons in the passenger cabin. This service is tailored for falconers traveling to competitions or hunting grounds, but strict guidelines apply to ensure a smooth journey.

• Reservation: You must book the carriage of a falcon at least 48 hours before your scheduled departure. Space is limited, as there is a maximum number of falcons allowed on each aircraft.
• Fees: Transporting a falcon is not included in the standard baggage allowance. It typically incurs a charge equivalent to three times the normal excess baggage rate.
• Safety Measures: Falcons must be hooded and securely chained to a perch or the handler's glove throughout the flight to prevent any disturbance.

Transporting Other Pets
For owners of cats, dogs, and other domestic animals, travel must be arranged through the airline's cargo services. Pets are not accepted as accompanied luggage on flights departing from Sharjah or other hubs. Shipping via cargo ensures that animals are placed in a temperature-controlled environment and handled by specialized staff.

Documentation and Health Regulations
Whether you are transporting a falcon in the cabin or shipping a pet via cargo, valid health documentation is mandatory. Requirements vary depending on your destination, especially for international routes to cities like Cairo or Moscow. Essential documents typically include:

• A valid health certificate issued by a veterinarian.
• Proof of required vaccinations, such as rabies shots.
• Microchip identification documentation.
• Any specific import or export permits required by the destination country.

It is highly recommended to contact the Air Arabia call center or visit a local sales office well in advance of your trip to confirm the latest regulations and secure the necessary approvals for your animal.

Introduction
Air Arabia offers a highly rewarding experience through its dedicated loyalty scheme, AirRewards. Recognized as the first loyalty program by a low-cost carrier in the Middle East and North Africa region, it is designed to be simple, transparent, and generous. The program operates on a straightforward "points as currency" model, allowing travelers to earn and redeem points like cash for maximum flexibility and value.

Membership Levels
Unlike traditional legacy carriers that use complex status tiers, AirRewards offers immediate value to every member from day one. The program focuses on inclusiveness and tangible returns rather than elite status barriers.

• AirRewards Member: Upon joining, every traveler enters this level. Key benefits include earning up to 10% cashback as points on spending, instant redemption capabilities, and the freedom to use points on any flight with no blackout dates.
• Family Account Head: This unique feature allows a designated "Head of Household" to pool points earned by up to eight family members into a single account. This accelerates earning power, making it faster to redeem rewards for family vacations to destinations like Cairo or Phuket.

Earning Points
Members accumulate points based on their spending rather than the distance flown, ensuring that every dirham or dollar counts toward the next trip.

• Flight & Baggage: Earn 5% of the amount spent on base fares and baggage allowances.
• Add-on Services: Earn 10% of the spend on seats, meals, and travel insurance.
• Credit Cards: Co-branded credit cards allow users to earn points on everyday retail spend, significantly accelerating reward accumulation.
• Retail & Lifestyle Partners: Earn points through a network of partners, including car rental agencies, hotel booking platforms, and select retail outlets.
• Partner Exchange: Points can also be transferred from partner loyalty programs, such as Etihad Guest, offering more ways to top up your balance.

Redeeming Points
Redemption is designed to be as easy as earning, with a user-friendly system that puts the traveler in control.

• Flights & Services: Points can be used to pay for flights, baggage, and meals to any destination in the network, such as Moscow or Delhi.
• Any Seat, Any Time: There are absolutely no blackout dates; if a seat is available for sale, it can be purchased with points.
• Points + Cash: If you do not have enough points for a full ticket, you can combine points with cash to complete the booking.
• Partner Transfers: AirRewards points can be converted into miles with partner airlines like Etihad Airways, expanding travel possibilities globally.

Alliance & Partnerships
While Air Arabia is not a member of a global airline alliance like Star Alliance or SkyTeam, it has cultivated powerful strategic partnerships to benefit its passengers.

• Etihad Guest Partnership: A major collaboration with Etihad Airways allows for a reciprocal transfer of points and miles between AirRewards and the Etihad Guest program.
• Codeshare Partners: The airline maintains agreements with select carriers to offer extended reach beyond its immediate network.

How to Join
Becoming a member is quick, free, and entirely digital.

• Online Registration: Visit the official Air Arabia website and sign up using your email address in just a few minutes.
• Mobile App: Download the Air Arabia app to register, track your points balance, and manage your bookings on the go.

As a low-cost carrier committed to delivering value, Air Arabia operates a streamlined single-class Economy configuration across its fleet. Unlike traditional legacy airlines that divide passengers into Business or First Class cabins, the airline focuses on providing a uniformly high standard of comfort for every traveler. This "all-economy" philosophy allows the airline to optimize efficiency while offering fares that remain accessible to a wide range of passengers.

The Economy Experience
Despite being a budget airline, the cabin experience is often cited as one of the most comfortable in its category. The airline prides itself on offering a generous seat pitch of 32 inches (81 cm), which is significantly more spacious than the standard economy seats found on many full-service carriers. This extra legroom ensures a relaxed journey, whether you are flying a short hop to Doha or a longer route to Moscow. The seats are designed by world-class manufacturers to provide ergonomic support, featuring a recline function that helps passengers rest easier.

Fare Bundles
While there is no separate business cabin, passengers can tailor their travel experience through three distinct fare categories, effectively allowing you to choose your level of service:

• Basic: The most affordable option, covering just the flight. Ideal for backpackers or short trips where no checked bags are needed.
• Value: A mid-tier bundle that includes a checked baggage allowance and a basic sandwich and water, offering a balance of comfort and cost.
• Extra: The premium bundle, which includes a generous baggage allowance, a hot meal, and the ability to select any seat on the aircraft (including the front rows or emergency exits for even more legroom).

Dining: Sky Cafe
Air Arabia offers a varied onboard dining menu known as Sky Cafe. Passengers can enjoy a selection of light snacks, hot meals, and refreshing beverages. To secure the best prices and ensure your preferred meal is available, it is highly recommended to pre-book your meals online before the flight. The menu features a mix of international and regional cuisines, catering to diverse tastes. Please note that as a carrier based in Sharjah, Air Arabia is a dry airline, meaning alcohol is not served or permitted on board.

Entertainment: Sky Time
To keep passengers entertained, the airline provides an innovative in-flight entertainment system called Sky Time. Rather than using seatback screens, this streaming service allows you to connect your own smartphone, tablet, or laptop to the aircraft's local Wi-Fi network. Once connected, you can access a wide selection of movies, TV shows, music, and games specifically curated for different age groups. This "Bring Your Own Device" approach ensures you can watch content on your preferred screen while keeping ticket prices low.

Shopping: Sky Mall
For those looking to purchase gifts or travel essentials, the onboard Sky Mall offers a duty-free shopping experience. The catalog includes fragrances, watches, jewelry, and gadgets at competitive prices, allowing you to shop from the comfort of your seat.

Traveling with Children
Air Arabia strives to make family travel as stress-free as possible. Infants under two years old travel for a nominal fee and are entitled to a dedicated baggage allowance. Regarding solo travel for young passengers, the airline has a straightforward policy: children under 12 years of age must always be accompanied by a parent or guardian who is at least 18 years old. However, children aged 12 and above are permitted to travel alone on the airline's network without an accompanying adult, making it easier for young students or relatives to visit family in cities like Cairo or Delhi.

Passengers with Reduced Mobility
The airline is committed to accessible travel for everyone. Passengers requiring wheelchair assistance or other special aid should request these services at the time of booking or at least 48 hours before departure. The cabin crew is trained to assist passengers with disabilities, ensuring a safe and dignified boarding and disembarking process.

Operating from its primary hub in Sharjah, Air Arabia connects passengers to an extensive network of destinations across the Middle East, North Africa, Asia, and Europe. The airline offers frequent and affordable flights to major cities, ensuring convenient travel options for both business and leisure trips.

Booking a flight with Air Arabia is the first step toward an affordable and exciting journey. As a leading low-cost carrier based in Sharjah, the airline offers a straightforward booking process, but knowing a few tips can help you secure the best fares and ensure a smooth travel experience.

Best Time to Book and Finding Deals
To find the most attractive prices, it is generally recommended to book your tickets well in advance. Fares often increase as the travel date approaches, especially for popular routes. Keep an eye out for seasonal promotions and flash sales, which are frequently advertised on the airline's website and social media channels. Signing up for their newsletter is a great way to stay informed about exclusive offers for destinations like Doha or Dhaka.

Online Check-in and Mobile App
Save time at the airport by utilizing the online check-in service. It typically opens 24 to 36 hours before your scheduled departure. You can easily complete this process via the Air Arabia website or their mobile app. The app is particularly useful for managing your booking on the go, allowing you to select seats, add baggage, and save your boarding pass directly to your smartphone for a hassle-free experience.

Seat Selection and Comfort
Since Air Arabia is a budget-friendly airline, seat selection is often an optional add-on. If you have a preference—such as a window seat for the views or an aisle seat for easy access—it is advisable to pre-book your spot online. For longer flights, such as those to Bangkok or Moscow, consider upgrading to a seat with extra legroom to enhance your comfort during the journey.

Travel Insurance and Extras
When finalizing your booking, consider adding travel insurance. This optional coverage can provide peace of mind by protecting you against unforeseen circumstances like trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage. Additionally, you can pre-order meals from their Sky Cafe menu to ensure you have your preferred choice of refreshments while flying to cities like Manama or Cairo.

The Dawn of Low-Cost Travel in the Region
In February 2003, a significant milestone in Middle Eastern aviation was marked when His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, issued an Amiri decree to establish Air Arabia. This bold move introduced the first low-cost carrier (LCC) to the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Operations officially commenced on October 28, 2003, with a flight from Sharjah International Airport to Manama in Bahrain. Unlike many startups, the airline achieved financial break-even in its very first year, proving the viability of the budget model in a market traditionally dominated by full-service legacy carriers.

Strategic Expansion and Public Listing
Following its initial success, the airline embarked on an aggressive expansion plan. In 2007, it made history again by launching a successful Initial Public Offering (IPO) on the Dubai Financial Market, signaling strong investor confidence. This period also saw the carrier place a substantial order for Airbus A320 aircraft, cementing its commitment to operating a modern and efficient fleet. The capital raised fueled the development of a unique multi-hub business model, allowing the airline to establish local bases in different countries to serve regional markets more effectively.

Building a Multi-Hub Network
Over the years, Air Arabia has evolved from a single airline into a group of carriers. It established joint ventures to create hubs beyond the UAE. This includes Air Arabia Maroc, based in Casablanca, serving Europe and Africa, and Air Arabia Egypt, operating out of Alexandria and later Cairo. More recently, the group launched Air Arabia Abu Dhabi in partnership with Etihad Airways, and Fly Jinnah in Pakistan, further broadening its footprint. This strategy has allowed the carrier to cover a vast geographic area, connecting passengers across the Middle East, North Africa, Europe, and Asia.

Fleet Evolution and Modernization
The airline has consistently relied on the Airbus A320 family, known for its reliability and efficiency. Starting with the classic A320, the fleet has evolved to include the A321neo and A321LR (Long Range) variants. These modern aircraft have been a game-changer, enabling the carrier to launch longer direct routes to destinations in Europe and Southeast Asia, including Bangkok, that were previously out of reach for standard narrow-body planes. In 2019, a significant order for 120 new aircraft was placed, ensuring continuous modernization and capacity growth for the coming decade.

Recent Innovations and Future Outlook
Approaching its third decade of operations, Air Arabia continues to innovate. It has maintained a strong focus on operational efficiency and customer experience, introducing digital booking enhancements and the "AirRewards" loyalty program. The airline has also demonstrated remarkable resilience, navigating global aviation challenges while maintaining profitability. Today, it connects millions of travelers to key cities like Moscow and Delhi, staying true to its founding promise of making air travel more accessible and affordable for everyone.