Air Arabia Abu Dhabi

Air Arabia Abu Dhabi represents a strategic milestone in Middle Eastern aviation, established as the first low-cost carrier based in the capital of the UAE. Born from a joint venture between Etihad Airways and the Air Arabia Group, the airline combines the operational excellence of a major global carrier with the budget-friendly accessibility of a leading LCC. It officially launched operations in July 2020, aiming to meet the growing demand for affordable travel options from the region. By connecting travelers to a diverse network of destinations, the airline empowers more people to explore the world with ease, efficiency, and comfort.

A New Era of Connectivity

As a relatively young player in the sky, Air Arabia Abu Dhabi has quickly expanded its footprint. The carrier focuses on creating vital links between the UAE and key markets across the Middle East, North Africa, and the Indian subcontinent. Its route network is designed to serve both the large expatriate communities and leisure travelers, offering frequent flights to popular cities such as Trivandrum, Kozhikode, and Cairo. Furthermore, the airline has opened up accessible tourism corridors to historic and scenic destinations like Tbilisi and Baku, making holiday planning more attainable for budget-conscious travelers.

Fleet and Passenger Experience

The airline operates a modern fleet consisting primarily of the Airbus A320 family. These aircraft are renowned for their reliability and fuel efficiency, which helps the carrier maintain its competitive pricing. Unlike many other low-cost airlines, Air Arabia serves one of the most generous seat pitches in the economy cabin, providing passengers with added comfort during their journey. The "Sky Café" onboard menu and the "AirRewards" loyalty program further enhance the passenger experience, offering value beyond just the ticket price.

Commitment to Safety and Quality

Drawing on the legacy of its parent companies, Air Arabia Abu Dhabi adheres to stringent safety protocols and operational standards. The airline's mission is to provide safe, reliable, and value-for-money air travel. While it operates as a budget carrier, it benefits significantly from the maintenance and safety infrastructure of the wider Etihad and Air Arabia groups. This unique position allows it to offer a high-quality travel product that prioritizes passenger safety and punctuality above all else.

To assist you in planning your journey or managing your booking, Air Arabia Abu Dhabi offers accessible and efficient support channels directly within the United Arab Emirates. Whether you need to modify a reservation, inquire about baggage, or seek assistance with special requests, the airline provides a dedicated 24/7 call center and local offices to ensure a smooth travel experience.

Official Website

For the most up-to-date flight schedules, online check-in, and managing your booking, visit the official website:

• Website: www.airarabia.com

Contact Information

• Customer Service (UAE): +971 600 508001 (Available 24/7)
• WhatsApp Support: +971 600 508001
• Email: contactus@airarabia.com
• Mobile App: "Air Arabia" (Available on App Store, Google Play, and Huawei AppGallery)

Social Media

Stay connected for the latest updates and offers:

• Facebook
• X (Twitter)
• Instagram
• LinkedIn

Local Offices in the UAE

If you prefer in-person assistance, you can visit the airline's sales offices or airport counters in Abu Dhabi:

• Abu Dhabi City Office: Ground Floor, Next to Jumbo Electronics, Hamdan Bin Mohammed Street, Al Danah, Zone 1.
• Airport Office: Business Park 1, Zayed International Airport (AUH).

Emergency & Support

The Customer Service Call Center (+971 600 508001) operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to assist with urgent inquiries and flight changes.

Traveling with Air Arabia Abu Dhabi offers a flexible approach to luggage, allowing you to pay only for what you need. As a low-cost carrier, the airline has designed its baggage policy to keep base fares affordable while providing passengers with the option to customize their allowance. Understanding these rules before you pack will ensure a smooth journey through the airport and help you avoid unexpected fees.

Carry-on Baggage Allowance

One of the highlights of flying with this airline is its generous free hand baggage allowance. Every passenger is permitted to carry one bag weighing up to 10 kg into the cabin. The dimensions of this bag must not exceed 55cm x 40cm x 20cm, including wheels and handles. This allowance enables you to keep your essentials, valuables, and travel documents close at hand. Parents traveling with infants (under two years old) are typically entitled to carry one additional standard-sized bag for baby items.

Checked Baggage Limits

Air Arabia Abu Dhabi operates on a "pay for what you need" model. Checked baggage is not automatically included in the basic fare but can be easily added. You can pre-book baggage allowances of 20 kg, 30 kg, or 40 kg depending on your requirements. If you purchase a fare bundle (such as "Value" or "Extra"), a specific checked baggage allowance may already be included in your ticket. Please note that for health and safety reasons, the maximum weight for any single piece of luggage must not exceed 32 kg.

Excess Baggage Fees

To secure the best rates, it is highly recommended to purchase your checked baggage allowance online when you book your flight or via the "Manage Booking" feature prior to departure. Paying for extra weight at the airport counters in Abu Dhabi or other destinations is significantly more expensive. If your luggage exceeds the pre-booked weight limit, excess baggage fees will apply immediately at the check-in desk.

Special Items and Sports Equipment

Travelers wishing to transport sports equipment—such as bicycles, golf bags, or surfboards—or musical instruments can do so for an additional fee. These items are subject to specific handling rules and must be properly packed to prevent damage. It is advisable to add these special items to your booking in advance to ensure there is sufficient space in the aircraft hold and to take advantage of lower online rates compared to airport charges.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

Safety is paramount, and standard international aviation rules apply. Items such as explosives, flammable liquids, compressed gases, and toxic substances are strictly prohibited in both checked and carry-on luggage. Lithium batteries and power banks must strictly be packed in your carry-on baggage and are forbidden in checked luggage. Additionally, passengers should be aware of the strict regulations regarding controlled medications in the UAE; always carry a valid prescription if you are traveling with prescription drugs.

Tips for Packing Efficiently

To maximize your allowance and minimize stress, weigh your bags at home before heading to the airport. Use a soft tape measure to check the dimensions of your cabin bag to ensure it fits the sizer. Adhere strictly to the liquids rule for hand luggage: all liquids, gels, and aerosols must be in containers of 100ml or less and fit comfortably into a single, transparent, re-sealable plastic bag. Finally, ensure all old baggage tags are removed from your suitcases to avoid confusion during handling.

Traveling with Pets on Air Arabia Abu Dhabi

Air Arabia Abu Dhabi (3L) maintains a specific and restrictive policy regarding animal transport to ensure passenger comfort and safety on board its fleet. Unlike some full-service carriers, the airline generally does not permit live animals in the cabin or as checked baggage, with the strict exception of falcons. For most pet owners (cats and dogs), the only available method of transport is through the airline's cargo division.

Transport Options

In Cabin (Carry-on)

The airline's cabin policy is unique to the region, catering specifically to the cultural heritage of falconry. No other animals, including small cats or dogs, are permitted in the passenger cabin.

• Allowed Pet Types: Falcons only.
• Carrier Dimensions: Not applicable; falcons are typically carried on the handler's gloved arm or a perch. Standard pet carriers are not permitted.
• Limit per Passenger: One falcon per handler is permitted without an extra seat.
• Additional Allowance: Maximum of two additional falcons are allowed if an extra seat is purchased (maximum two birds per extra seat).
• Booking Requirement: Reservations must be made at least 48 hours before departure.

In Cargo Hold (Checked Baggage)

Air Arabia Abu Dhabi does not offer a service for pets to travel as accompanying checked baggage. You cannot bring your pet to the check-in counter to be loaded into the hold on the same ticket.

• Availability: Not available for any animal type.
• Alternative: All pets that cannot travel in the cabin (which is all non-falcon animals) must be shipped as manifest cargo.

As Cargo (For All Other Animals)

This is the mandatory transport method for cats, dogs, and other household pets. Animals travel in the cargo hold but are processed through the cargo terminal rather than the passenger terminal.

• When this option is required: For all pets (cats, dogs, birds other than falcons) and large animals.
• Special Requirements: Animals must be shipped in IATA-compliant crates with proper ventilation and locking mechanisms.
• Booking Procedure: You must contact Air Arabia Cargo directly or use a freight forwarder to arrange the shipment. An Airway Bill (AWB) is required.
• Hub Note: All cargo shipments arriving in Abu Dhabi are subject to UAE customs clearance procedures.

Required Documentation

Travelers must ensure all paperwork meets the regulations of the UAE and the destination country.

• Veterinary Health Certificate: Must be valid and issued by a government-authorized vet (usually within a few days of travel).
• Vaccination Card: Proof of up-to-date vaccinations, specifically Rabies (must be administered at least 21 days prior to travel).
• Microchip Certificate: Mandatory for identification (ISO 11784/11785 compliant).
• Import Permit: For travel to the UAE, a valid Import Permit from the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) is required.
• Fit-to-Fly Certificate: Often required by the cargo handlers.

Service Costs

Fees vary significantly based on the method of transport and destination.

• In-Cabin (Falcons): Approximately 3 times the normal excess baggage rate per bird.
• Extra Seat (Falcons): Charge equivalent to a standard passenger seat fare.
• Cargo Fee: Calculated based on the volumetric weight of the crate and current air freight rates (contact Air Arabia Cargo for quotes).

Preparation Tips

To ensure a smooth journey for your animal, especially when shipping via cargo:

• Crate Training: Acclimate your pet to their IATA crate weeks before the flight to reduce stress.
• Hydration: Ensure the crate has a spill-proof water container accessible from the outside.
• Feeding: Feed your pet a light meal approximately 4 hours before the flight; do not feed them immediately before departure.
• Leash and Collar: Do not leave these on the animal inside the crate; pack them separately or attach them to the outside.

Restrictions

Strict rules apply to the types of animals accepted for transport.

• Prohibited Breeds: Aggressive dog breeds (e.g., Pit Bulls, Staffordshire Terriers, Mastiffs) are generally prohibited from import into the UAE.
• Snub-nosed Animals: Brachycephalic breeds (cats and dogs) may be restricted due to respiratory risks in cargo; check with the cargo department.
• Young Animals: Puppies and kittens usually must be at least 12–15 weeks old and fully vaccinated.
• Cabin Restrictions: Strictly no cats or dogs in the passenger cabin, regardless of size or weight.

Important: Pet travel regulations, especially regarding cargo and import permits, are subject to change. You must contact Air Arabia Abu Dhabi customer support or the Air Arabia Cargo department directly before booking your ticket to confirm current acceptance rules.

Introduction to AirRewards

The loyalty program for Air Arabia Abu Dhabi is known as AirRewards. Recognized as one of the most generous loyalty schemes in the region, it is designed to be simple, transparent, and rewarding for every traveler. Unlike traditional frequent flyer programs that rely on miles, AirRewards is a spend-based program where members earn points on every expense, offering actual monetary value that can be redeemed for future travel expenses.

Membership Levels

AirRewards stands out by avoiding complex status tiers or elite qualifications. Instead, it offers a streamlined structure where every member enjoys maximum flexibility from day one. The program classifies participation into two distinct types:

• Individual Member: The standard entry level where you earn points on your own flights and services, with no minimum flight requirement to start redeeming.
• Family Account: A specialized feature that allows you to pool points earned by up to 8 family members into a single "Head of Family" account, accelerating your ability to redeem rewards.

Earning Points

The program rewards you based on how much you spend rather than the distance you fly, ensuring you get value back on every purchase.

• Flights and Services: Earn up to 10% cashback in the form of points on flight base fares, baggage allowance, seat selection, and meals.
• Partner Network: Accumulate points through a network of partners including retail stores, entertainment venues, and lifestyle brands.
• Points Exchange: Convert loyalty points from participating banks and telecommunication partners directly into AirRewards points.
• Everyday Spending: Earn points when shopping with designated partner credit cards or financial institutions associated with the program.

Redeeming Points

AirRewards functions like a currency, offering unmatched flexibility for redemption without the restrictions often found in other programs.

• Award Flights: Use points to pay for full or partial flight tickets to destinations like Cairo or Kozhikode with no blackout dates.
• Flight Add-ons: Redeem points to cover the cost of extra baggage, preferred seat selection, or onboard meals.
• Instant Redemption: Points can be used instantly during the booking process on the website or mobile app.
• Cash plus Points: If you don't have enough points for a full ticket, you can pay the difference with cash or card.

Alliance Membership

Air Arabia Abu Dhabi operates as an independent low-cost carrier and is not a member of major global airline alliances such as Star Alliance, SkyTeam, or oneworld. However, it benefits from its close strategic partnership with Etihad Airways, leveraging the operational strengths of the UAE's national carrier while maintaining its own distinct, value-focused loyalty program.

How to Join

Becoming a member is quick, free, and entirely digital.

• Online Registration: Sign up via the official Air Arabia website by providing your basic personal details and email address.
• Mobile App: Download the Air Arabia app to register and manage your account on the go.
• Instant Activation: Your membership ID is generated immediately, allowing you to start earning points on your very next flight from Abu Dhabi.

Cabin Classes and Fares

Air Arabia Abu Dhabi operates as a low-cost carrier with a streamlined service model, featuring a single Economy Class cabin across its fleet. This allows for a consistent and efficient travel experience. While there are no separate Business or First Class cabins, the airline offers passengers flexibility through its fare bundles—Basic, Value, and Extra. These bundles allow travelers to tailor their journey by including baggage allowances, seat selection, and meal options in their ticket price, ensuring you only pay for the services you actually need.

Seat Configuration and Comfort

Despite being a budget airline, the carrier is renowned for offering one of the most spacious economy cabins in the region. Flights are operated primarily by modern Airbus A320 aircraft, designed with passenger comfort in mind. The seats feature a generous pitch of 32 inches (81 cm), which is significantly more legroom than the standard offered by many other low-cost competitors. This added space makes longer journeys, such as those to Moscow or Eastern Europe, much more relaxing.

In-Flight Entertainment

To keep passengers entertained without the bulk of traditional seatback screens, the airline offers a state-of-the-art streaming service called "SkyTime". This innovative in-flight entertainment system allows you to stream a wide selection of movies, TV shows, music, and games directly to your own smartphone, tablet, or laptop. The service is free of charge; passengers simply need to connect to the onboard Wi-Fi network dedicated to the entertainment portal after takeoff.

Dining: The Sky Café

Food and beverages are available through the onboard catering service known as "Sky Café". Passengers can choose from a varied menu that includes hot meals, sandwiches, salads, and snacks, along with a selection of hot and cold drinks. To secure the best rates and ensure your preferred meal choice is available, it is highly recommended to pre-book your meals online before your flight. Please note that Air Arabia Abu Dhabi is a dry airline, meaning alcohol is not served or permitted on board.

Special Services

The airline is committed to making air travel accessible and convenient for everyone. Dedicated services are available for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair assistance which can be arranged at the time of booking or up to 48 hours before departure. For families traveling from Abu Dhabi, the airline provides priority boarding and specialized assistance for those with infants. Unaccompanied minors are also accepted on flights, provided that the service is booked in advance and all necessary documentation is completed.

Air Arabia Abu Dhabi connects the UAE capital to a growing network of international destinations, providing travelers with affordable and convenient access to key cities across the globe. Operating from its hub at Abu Dhabi International Airport, the airline focuses on high-demand routes that cater to both business professionals and leisure seekers.

The airline's network is strategically grouped into several key regions, ensuring strong connectivity to the Indian subcontinent, the Middle East, and emerging tourist hotspots in Eastern Europe and the Caucasus.

• South Asia: A significant portion of the airline's operations serves the Indian subcontinent. Travelers can take advantage of frequent connections to major Indian cities, including Trivandrum, Kozhikode, Chennai, Ahmedabad, and Kochi. The network also extends to other popular destinations in the region, such as Colombo in Sri Lanka, Kathmandu in Nepal, and Dhaka in Bangladesh.
• Middle East & North Africa: Strengthening regional ties, the carrier offers regular flights to vibrant capitals and cultural centers. In Egypt, passengers can fly to the bustling metropolis of Cairo or the Mediterranean port city of Alexandria. The network also covers the Gulf and Levant with flights to Manama, Kuwait City, Amman, Beirut, and the scenic city of Salalah.
• Eastern Europe, Russia & The Caucasus: For those looking to explore historic landmarks and cooler climates, Air Arabia Abu Dhabi provides direct links to the Caucasus region, including Tbilisi, Baku, and Yerevan. Additionally, the airline serves major travel hubs such as Moscow and Istanbul, making these diverse locations easily accessible from the UAE.

To secure the most competitive fares with Air Arabia Abu Dhabi, it is generally advisable to book your tickets at least a few weeks in advance. Prices tend to rise as the departure date approaches, so planning ahead is key to saving money on your journey from Abu Dhabi. Being flexible with your travel dates can also uncover significantly lower prices, as flying mid-week often proves cheaper than weekend travel.

Finding the best deals and promotions is easier if you subscribe to the airline's newsletter or follow their official social media channels. They frequently release seasonal offers and flash sales for popular routes, such as flights to Cairo or Trivandrum. Keeping an eye on these updates allows you to snap up discounted tickets as soon as they become available.

Streamlining your airport experience is simple with the online check-in service. This feature typically opens 24 to 36 hours before your scheduled departure and allows you to select your seat and print your boarding pass or save it to your mobile device. Utilizing online check-in not only saves you time at the airport but also helps you avoid potential queues at traditional counters.

When it comes to comfort, seat selection is an important consideration. As a low-cost carrier, the airline allows passengers to choose their preferred seats for a fee. If you desire extra legroom or a window seat to enjoy the views while landing in Tbilisi or Baku, it is best to reserve these during the initial booking process to ensure availability. Pre-booking baggage allowance and meals online is also usually cheaper than paying for them at the airport.

Downloading the mobile app is highly recommended for managing your travel plans on the go. The app provides a convenient platform to search for flights, manage bookings, check flight status, and access mobile boarding passes. Additionally, consider purchasing travel insurance during the booking process. This offers peace of mind by covering unexpected events such as flight cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage.

Founding and Strategic Partnership

Air Arabia Abu Dhabi was established as a landmark joint venture between Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, and the Air Arabia Group, the region's first and largest low-cost carrier operator. Announced in October 2019, this strategic alliance was designed to fill a specific gap in the market: providing high-value, budget-friendly travel options directly from the UAE capital. As the first low-cost carrier based in Abu Dhabi, the airline was created to complement the services of Etihad Airways, offering travelers a wider range of choices and supporting the emirate's vision to attract more tourists and business visitors.

Launch and Early Operations

The airline officially commenced operations on July 14, 2020, a significant achievement given the challenging global aviation climate at the time. Its inaugural flight departed for Alexandria, marking the beginning of its mission to connect the UAE with key regional destinations. Shortly after, a second route to Cairo was launched, underscoring the importance of the Egyptian market. Despite starting during a period of travel restrictions, the carrier demonstrated resilience by focusing on essential travel corridors and gradually increasing frequencies as borders reopened.

Network Expansion and Milestones

Following its successful debut, the airline rapidly expanded its footprint across the Middle East, the Indian subcontinent, and Eastern Europe. A major phase of growth involved connecting the large expatriate communities in the UAE with their home cities; this saw the launch of vital routes to Indian destinations such as Trivandrum, Kozhikode, and Chennai. Simultaneously, the airline tapped into the leisure market by introducing flights to popular holiday spots like Tbilisi, Baku, and Salalah, making international holidays more accessible to residents of the capital.

Fleet Evolution and Modern Development

Starting with just two aircraft at its inception, the fleet has grown steadily to meet increasing demand. The airline operates the Airbus A320 family, a choice aligned with the broader Air Arabia Group's fleet strategy to ensure operational efficiency and consistency. Today, Air Arabia Abu Dhabi continues to play a pivotal role in the growth of the local aviation sector. By offering affordable connectivity to cities like Moscow and Kuwait City, it supports the "Abu Dhabi Vision 2030" economic goals, fostering tourism and trade while maintaining the high safety and service standards inherited from its parent companies.