The airlines in UAE play a major role in connecting the country with destinations across the Middle East, Asia, Europe, Africa and other parts of the world. The UAE’s major carriers are primarily based in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, with different airlines serving different markets and route networks.
For travellers, knowing the major airlines in UAE and their home bases makes it easier to understand which airline operates from which emirate and where its main network is centred.
Airports in UAE: Major Airports, Codes and Locations
Major Airlines of UAE
Emirates — Dubai
Home Base: Dubai International Airport (DXB)
IATA Code: EK
Emirates is Dubai’s flagship international airline and operates a large global network from its main hub at Dubai International Airport.
Etihad Airways — Abu Dhabi
Home Base: Zayed International Airport (AUH)
IATA Code: EY
Etihad Airways is Abu Dhabi’s flagship carrier, connecting the UAE capital with destinations across its international network.
flydubai — Dubai
Home Base: Dubai International Airport (DXB)
IATA Code: FZ
flydubai is a Dubai-based airline with a strong network across the Middle East, Central Asia, Africa and other regional markets.
Air Arabia — Sharjah
Home Base: Sharjah International Airport (SHJ)
IATA Code: G9
Air Arabia is headquartered in Sharjah and operates a large network of mainly regional and international destinations from its UAE base.
UAE Airlines at a Glance
| Airline | Home Base | IATA Code |
|---|---|---|
| Emirates | Dubai | EK |
| Etihad Airways | Abu Dhabi | EY |
| flydubai | Dubai | FZ |
| Air Arabia | Sharjah | G9 |
Together, these airlines form an important part of the UAE’s passenger aviation network, with Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah serving as major airline hubs.
Major Airline Hubs in the UAE
Dubai: Emirates and flydubai are the major Dubai-based carriers, with Dubai International Airport serving as their principal hub.
Abu Dhabi: Etihad Airways is based at Zayed International Airport.
Sharjah: Air Arabia is based at Sharjah International Airport.
For travellers, the choice of airline can depend on the departure airport, destination, flight schedule, connections and available fares.
