flydubai

flydubai is Dubai's government-owned low-cost airline, established in 2008 to expand air connectivity from Dubai International Airport to destinations that Emirates — with its widebody, premium-focused product — cannot serve economically. Operating exclusively Boeing 737 aircraft (making it one of the world's largest 737 operators), flydubai connects Dubai with 90+ destinations across the Middle East, Central Asia, Eastern Europe, Africa, and the Indian Subcontinent — many of them secondary and emerging markets that had little or no direct air service to Dubai before flydubai's launch. The airline operates in close commercial partnership with Emirates, sharing the same ultimate ownership (Government of Dubai) and offering comprehensive code-sharing that allows passengers to connect seamlessly between flydubai's extensive point-to-point network and Emirates' long-haul intercontinental services.

flydubai's product, though low-cost by regional standards, is notably more inclusive than comparable European LCCs — offering complimentary meals on many routes and a Business Class product on Boeing 737 aircraft. The airline has been an important tool in Dubai's strategy of becoming the most connected city in the world, opening new routes to Central Asian, African, and Eastern European markets that Emirates cannot serve profitably.