El Al

El Al, the national airline of Israel, stands as a prestigious symbol of the country's aviation achievements and global connectivity. Since its establishment in 1948, the carrier has grown from a modest operation into a world-renowned airline, celebrated for its dedication to passenger well-being and technological advancement. With a philosophy deeply rooted in traditional hospitality, El Al offers a unique "home away from home" atmosphere, ensuring that every journey is comfortable, welcoming, and efficient.

History and Global Reach
As the flag carrier of Israel, El Al has a rich history that parallels the development of the nation itself. Over the decades, it has expanded its network to serve major destinations across Europe, North America, Asia, and Africa. The airline continues to open new horizons, recently strengthening its presence in the Middle East. For instance, travelers can now enjoy direct flights connecting Dubai with the airline's main hub, facilitating seamless travel for both business and leisure.

Fleet and Onboard Experience
El Al operates an all-Boeing fleet, which ensures high standards of maintenance and reliability. The fleet includes the sophisticated Boeing 787 Dreamliner, designed to provide a smoother ride, better air quality, and enhanced entertainment options. Passengers across all classes enjoy complimentary meals, which are kosher-certified, reflecting the airline's cultural heritage. The "Matmid" Frequent Flyer Club rewards loyal customers with various benefits, further enhancing the travel experience.

Commitment to Safety and Security
El Al is widely recognized globally for its unparalleled security record. The airline implements rigorous safety protocols that set industry standards, making it one of the most secure carriers in the world. This commitment provides peace of mind to millions of passengers annually. Combined with a mission to embody the warm spirit of Israel, El Al consistently strives to deliver safe, punctual, and pleasant service to every traveler on board.

Travelers in the United Arab Emirates can easily reach El Al for assistance with reservations, flight updates, or baggage inquiries. While the airline manages many services digitally to ensure efficiency, support is available for passengers flying from Dubai to the airline's main hub in Tel Aviv and beyond. For the most immediate assistance, the airline encourages the use of its official website and mobile app, where you can manage bookings and access 24/7 chat support options.

Essential Contact Details

• Official Website: www.elal.com – Use this portal for booking tickets, online check-in, and accessing the specific "Contact Us" section for the region.
• Customer Service & Booking (WhatsApp): +972 3 9771111 – This verified WhatsApp channel is available 24/7 for text-based support and is highly recommended for passengers in the UAE.
• International Call Center: +972 3 9771111 – Main support line for international inquiries (international calling rates may apply).
• Email: customer@elal.co.il – For general customer service inquiries and feedback.
• Mobile App: El Al App – Available on the App Store and Google Play for booking and flight management.

Social Media Channels

Connect with the airline on social media for the latest updates and service announcements:

• Facebook: El Al Israel Airlines
• Twitter (X): @EL_AL_ISRAEL
• Instagram: @elalisrael
• LinkedIn: EL AL Israel Airlines

Local Presence

• Airport Counters: El Al operates service desks at Dubai International Airport (DXB). Staff are typically available at the check-in counters prior to scheduled flight departures to assist with boarding and immediate travel needs.

Please note: Local phone numbers and office hours may change. It is advisable to verify the most current regional contact information directly on the official website before your trip.

Preparing for your flight with El Al requires a quick look at their baggage policies to ensure a smooth journey. Whether you are traveling from Dubai to the airline's main hub in Tel Aviv or connecting further, knowing what you can bring will help you avoid unexpected fees at the airport.

Carry-on Baggage Allowance

Your cabin baggage allowance depends on the class of service you have booked. In addition to the standard carry-on bag, passengers are generally permitted to bring one small personal item, such as a handbag, briefcase, or laptop bag.

• Economy Class: Passengers are typically allowed one carry-on bag weighing up to 8 kg.
• Premium Class: Travelers often enjoy a higher allowance, usually permitting two pieces of hand luggage with a combined weight limit (commonly up to 12 kg).
• Business and First Class: These classes generally offer the most generous allowances, often permitting two bags with a significantly higher combined weight limit, providing ample space for your essentials.

Ensure that your hand luggage does not exceed the standard dimensions of 56 cm x 45 cm x 25 cm to fit comfortably in the overhead bins.

Checked Baggage Limits

El Al offers different fare types that determine your checked luggage rights. It is important to check your specific ticket conditions:

• Lite Fares: These are often "hand luggage only" fares. If you need to check a bag, you will likely need to pay an additional fee.
• Classic Fares: typically include one checked bag weighing up to 23 kg.
• Premium Class: Usually includes two checked bags, each weighing up to 23 kg.
• Business Class: Passengers can generally check two bags, with an increased weight limit of up to 32 kg each.

Excess Baggage Fees

If your luggage exceeds the permitted weight or size limits, excess baggage fees will be charged. These rates can be quite high when paid at the airport. To save money, it is highly recommended to purchase additional weight or extra bag allowance online via the airline's website or app before your travel date.

Special Items

Traveling with special gear requires a bit of extra planning. Sports equipment, such as golf clubs, skis, or diving gear, can sometimes be included as part of your checked baggage allowance if it falls within weight limits, though oversize fees may apply. Musical instruments can be brought on board if they fit in the overhead compartment; larger instruments may require you to purchase an extra seat or check them as fragile baggage.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

Safety regulations are strictly enforced. Lithium batteries and power banks must be packed in your carry-on luggage and are strictly prohibited in checked bags. Sharp objects, flammable materials, and explosives are forbidden. Remember the standard liquid restrictions for carry-on bags: liquids must be in containers of 100 ml or less and fit within a single transparent, re-sealable plastic bag.

Tips for Packing Efficiently

Maximize your space by rolling clothes instead of folding them. Always weigh your bags at home to ensure you are within the limits. Place a tag with your name, email, and phone number on the outside and inside of your luggage. Finally, keep valuable items, travel documents, and medication in your carry-on bag so they are always accessible.

Pet Travel Guide for El Al

El Al understands that pets are part of the family and offers dedicated services to ensure they travel safely and comfortably. Whether flying for a vacation or relocation, the airline provides specialized options for transporting dogs, cats, and exotic birds, subject to strict safety regulations and destination-specific entry rules.

Transport Options

In Cabin (Carry-on)

Small pets can accompany passengers in the cabin if they meet specific size and weight criteria. This option ensures your pet stays close to you throughout the flight.

• Carrier Dimensions: Soft carriers are recommended, typically not exceeding 41 cm length, 30 cm width, and 21 cm height.
• Maximum Weight: Up to 9 kg (approximately 19.8 lbs), including the weight of the carrier.
• Allowed Pet Types: primarily dogs and cats; some exotic birds may be permitted with special approval.
• Personal Item: The pet carrier replaces your standard carry-on baggage allowance.
• Limit: Generally one pet container per passenger.

In Cargo Hold (Checked Baggage)

For pets that exceed the cabin weight limits, traveling in the temperature-controlled cargo hold is the standard solution. This section is pressurized and designed for animal safety.

• Weight Limits: Pets weighing up to 100 kg (including the crate) can typically fly as checked baggage.
• Container Requirements: Must be an IATA-compliant hard-shell crate with secure locking mechanisms, ventilation on three sides, and metal bolts.
• Comfort: The crate must be large enough for the animal to stand, turn around, and lie down in a natural position.
• Temperature Restrictions: Pets may not be accepted if extreme heat or cold is forecast at departure, transfer, or arrival airports.

As Cargo

Some situations require pets to be shipped as manifest cargo rather than checked baggage. This is handled by the El Al Cargo division.

• When Required: For very large animals (over 100 kg with crate), unaccompanied pets, or to destinations that mandate cargo arrival (e.g., UK, Hong Kong).
• Booking: Must be arranged separately through the cargo department or a pet shipping agent.
• Documentation: Requires an Air Waybill and additional customs handling.

Required Documentation

Traveling with animals requires careful preparation of paperwork to ensure smooth entry at the destination.

• Veterinary Health Certificate: Issued by a licensed vet, typically within 10 days of travel.
• Vaccination Records: Valid rabies vaccination certificate (usually at least 30 days old and less than a year).
• Microchip: ISO-compliant microchip for identification.
• Import Permits: Specific authorization from the destination country (e.g., "Authorization to Fly with Pet" from Israeli Veterinary Services if flying to Tel Aviv).
• Antibody Titer Test: Required by certain countries to prove rabies immunity.

Service Costs

Fees for pet travel are additional to the passenger ticket and depend on the weight of the animal and the route.

• In-Cabin Fee: Approximately $100 USD per direction.
• Cargo Hold Fee: Ranges from approximately $200 to $400 USD depending on the animal's weight and crate size.
• Note: Prices are subject to change based on the specific itinerary and exchange rates.

Preparation Tips

To ensure a stress-free journey for your pet, consider the following recommendations:

• Acclimatization: Let your pet get used to the travel crate weeks before the flight.
• Feeding: Offer a light meal 4–6 hours before departure; do not feed right before flying to prevent nausea.
• Hydration: Ensure the pet is well-hydrated, and attach an empty water dish to the crate door (staff can fill it if needed).
• Comfort: Place an absorbent pad on the crate floor; avoid placing toys or loose items inside.

Restrictions

Safety is the priority, and certain limitations apply to animal transport.

• Prohibited Breeds: Aggressive dog breeds are often banned from travel.
• Snub-nosed (Brachycephalic) Animals: Breeds like Pugs, Bulldogs, and Persian cats are generally restricted or banned from the cargo hold due to respiratory risks.
• Age Limit: Pets must usually be at least 3 to 4 months old to travel (depending on vaccination rules).
• Exceptions: Certified service animals are generally exempt from weight limits and fees when traveling in the cabin, provided proper documentation is submitted in advance.

Important: Travel regulations and airline policies can change frequently. It is critical to contact El Al directly or consult their official website at least a month before your trip to confirm current rules for your specific route, especially when flying from Dubai.

Matmid Frequent Flyer Club

The Matmid Frequent Flyer Club is El Al's dedicated loyalty program designed to reward passengers for their continued patronage with valuable points and exclusive privileges. Members can enhance their travel experience through accumulated points, which unlock a variety of benefits ranging from bonus tickets to luxurious ground services. The program is structured to offer increasing rewards as you fly more frequently, ensuring that loyal travelers receive the recognition they deserve.

Membership Tiers

The program features several status levels, each offering progressively higher value and comfort for the traveler:

• Matmid (Basic): The entry-level tier allowing members to start earning points on tickets and purchases immediately.
• Silver: Provides valuable perks such as priority check-in at designated counters and extra baggage allowance.
• Gold: Offers premium benefits including access to King David Lounges and complimentary seat selection.
• Platinum: Designed for frequent flyers, featuring concierge services and higher priority for upgrades.
• Top Platinum: The most exclusive status delivering the highest priority on standby lists and executive service.

Earning Points

Members can accumulate points through various activities, making it easy to grow their balance:

• Flights: Earn points on all El Al scheduled flights, including the route between Dubai and Tel Aviv.
• Airline Partners: Collect points when flying with codeshare partners on select international routes.
• Hotels and Cars: Earn rewards by booking stays and rentals with global travel partners.
• Credit Cards: The FLY CARD and other partner credit cards allow you to earn points on daily shopping.

Redeeming Points

Points can be exchanged for a wide range of travel rewards and services:

• Award Flights: Redeem points for "Bonus Tickets" to destinations across the airline's network.
• Class Upgrades: Use points to upgrade your seat from Economy to Premium or Business Class.
• Ancillary Services: Pay for pre-selected seating or additional checked luggage with your points.
• Cash & Points: Combine points with cash to pay for flight tickets, offering greater flexibility.

Partnerships and Alliances

While El Al is not a member of a major global airline alliance like Star Alliance or Oneworld, it maintains strong bilateral agreements to extend its reach:

• Strategic Partners: The airline has codeshare agreements with major carriers including American Airlines, Qantas, and Iberia.
• Network Benefits: These partnerships allow passengers to earn points and enjoy seamless connections to destinations worldwide.

How to Join

Joining the Matmid Frequent Flyer Club is a straightforward process that can be completed online. Travelers can register for free via the official El Al website or mobile app to receive a membership number instantly and begin earning points on their very next trip.

Service Classes and In-Flight Experience

Flying with El Al is more than just a transit experience; it is an immersion into warm Israeli hospitality from the moment you step onboard. Whether you are traveling on a short hop from Dubai or connecting to a long-haul destination via Tel Aviv, the airline is dedicated to providing comfort, connectivity, and a distinct sense of "home" in the sky. The fleet, predominantly composed of Boeing aircraft, offers modern cabin configurations designed to suit various travel needs and budgets.

Cabin Classes

Economy Class
El Al’s Economy Class is designed to maximize comfort without compromising on value. Passengers can expect ergonomic seats with adjustable headrests and ample legroom. On the newer Boeing 787 Dreamliner fleet, the experience is further enhanced with larger windows, mood lighting, and a personal entertainment screen at every seat. USB power outlets are generally available to keep devices charged throughout the journey.

Premium Class
Available primarily on the Dreamliner aircraft, Premium Class offers a bridge between Economy and Business. It features a separate, quieter cabin with spacious seats that offer significantly more recline and legroom. Passengers in this class enjoy upgraded amenities, including a dedicated service team, an enhanced dining menu served on porcelain dishware, and a dedicated comfort kit, ensuring a relaxed and upscale journey.

Business Class
El Al’s Business Class represents the pinnacle of luxury on their modern fleet. Designed for maximum privacy and rest, the seats on wide-body aircraft convert into fully flat beds, allowing for a restful sleep on longer flights. Guests enjoy direct aisle access from every seat (on the 787), premium bedding, and an exclusive toiletry kit. The culinary experience is akin to a fine dining restaurant, accompanied by a selection of premium Israeli wines.

In-Flight Dining

A Culinary Tradition
One of the airline's hallmarks is its commitment to dietary observance. All meals served on El Al flights are Kosher-certified, prepared under strict supervision. The menus are created by top chefs and feature a blend of international tastes and traditional Middle Eastern flavors. Passengers can enjoy a fresh, hot meal accompanied by a selection of complimentary beverages, including soft drinks, wines, and coffee.

Special Dietary Requests
In addition to the standard Kosher offering, the airline caters to a wide variety of dietary needs. Passengers can pre-order varied meal types such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or diabetic-friendly options. These special meals must be requested in advance during the booking process to ensure availability.

Entertainment and Connectivity

Entertainment System
Boredom is not an option with the advanced AVOD (Audio Video on Demand) systems available on most aircraft. The personal screens offer a rich library of Hollywood blockbusters, Israeli cinema, classic movies, TV shows, and music albums. For children, there is a dedicated selection of games and cartoons to keep them engaged.

Wi-Fi Services
Understanding the need to stay connected, El Al has rolled out high-speed Wi-Fi across much of its fleet. Packages range from basic messaging plans to full streaming capabilities, allowing business travelers to work and leisure travelers to stay in touch with family and friends above the clouds.

Special Services

Traveling with Children
Families are welcomed with open arms. The airline provides bassinets for infants (subject to advance booking and seat availability) and offers special child-friendly meals. The entertainment system features a "Kids World" channel, and on certain flights, the crew may provide activity kits to keep little ones occupied.

Assistance for Passengers with Disabilities
El Al is committed to making air travel accessible to everyone. Comprehensive assistance is available for passengers with reduced mobility, visual or hearing impairments, and other special needs. From wheelchair service at the airport to assistance with boarding and disembarking, the ground and cabin crews are trained to provide dignified and helpful support. Passengers requiring specific assistance are advised to contact the airline well in advance of their flight.

El Al connects the world to Israel through its primary hub in Tel Aviv, serving a network of approximately 50 global destinations across Europe, North America, Asia, and Africa. For travelers based in the UAE, the airline offers robust direct connectivity, making it a convenient choice for visiting Israel or connecting to onward flights.

Planning your trip with El Al requires a bit of strategy to get the best value. If you are looking to fly on the popular route from Dubai to Tel Aviv, it is generally recommended to book your tickets at least 3 to 4 weeks in advance. For the lowest fares, try to be flexible with your travel dates; flying mid-week, particularly on Tuesdays or Wednesdays, can often result in significant savings compared to weekend departures.

To stay updated on the latest promotions and flash sales, consider subscribing to the airline's newsletter or following their social media channels. Downloading the El Al mobile app is also a smart move. It allows you to manage your booking, receive real-time flight updates, and access exclusive mobile-only offers, putting control of your journey right at your fingertips.

Streamline your airport experience by taking advantage of online check-in, which typically opens 24 hours before your scheduled departure. This allows you to select your preferred seat—whether you enjoy the view from a window seat or the convenience of an aisle—and download your boarding pass to your phone. If you have specific seating requirements or desire extra legroom, it is best to select your seat as early as possible during the booking process.

Finally, never underestimate the importance of comprehensive travel insurance. While we all hope for a smooth journey, having coverage for unexpected cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage provides peace of mind. Ensure your policy covers international travel to your specific destination so you can relax and enjoy your flight.

History and Development

The story of El Al is intrinsically linked to the history of commercial aviation in the region. Established in 1948, the airline operated its maiden flight from Geneva to Tel Aviv, marking the beginning of Israel's national carrier. In those early years, the company focused on establishing vital air links to Europe, quickly becoming a lifeline for passengers and cargo alike. By the early 1950s, the airline had already expanded its network to include destinations in South Africa and the United States, demonstrating a rapid commitment to global connectivity.

The Jet Age and Fleet Evolution
A significant turning point occurred in 1961 when El Al entered the jet age with the acquisition of the Boeing 707. This move revolutionized flight times and passenger comfort, particularly on the prestigious transatlantic route to New York. This era marked the beginning of a long-standing partnership with Boeing. Over the decades, the airline operated various iconic aircraft, including the "Queen of the Skies," the Boeing 747, which served as the backbone of its long-haul fleet for many years. Today, this legacy continues with a modern, all-Boeing fleet featuring the advanced 787 Dreamliner, symbolizing a shift towards greater fuel efficiency and passenger well-being.

Corporate Evolution and Expansion
Throughout its history, the carrier has adapted to the changing landscape of the aviation industry. Formerly state-owned, the airline underwent a major transformation in the early 2000s when it began the process of privatization. This shift allowed for more agile management and commercial growth. The company also established Sun d'Or as a subsidiary to cater to the leisure and charter market, effectively diversifying its portfolio to meet different traveler needs.

Modern Milestones and New Horizons
In recent years, El Al has continued to break new ground. A historic development for the region was the launch of direct flights to Dubai. This route represents a new era of travel and commerce, bridging cultures and offering seamless connections for tourists and business professionals in the United Arab Emirates. Alongside route expansion, the airline has invested heavily in digital innovation and cabin upgrades, ensuring that it remains a competitive and preferred choice for modern travelers.