flydubai

flydubai is a Dubai-based hybrid airline and Emirates partner, flying Boeing 737s from Dubai International to more than 120 destinations. Economy Lite includes only a 7 kg hand bag, while Value includes 20 kg and Flex 30 kg of checked baggage. This guide covers each fare’s baggage, excess fees, the one-power-bank rule, Terminal 2 tips, Business Class and how flydubai compares with Emirates and Air India Express.

flydubai was set up by the Government of Dubai in 2008 and started flying in 2009. It serves shorter routes than Emirates, often to cities with few other direct flights, and works as a hybrid airline with both Economy and Business Class.

Power Bank Rules on flydubai

flydubai has one of the strictest power bank rules in the region:

• Only one power bank per passenger, of up to 100 Wh, in hand baggage.
• It must stay switched off: no charging devices and no recharging the power bank during the flight.
• Keep it in the seat pocket or a bag under the seat, not in the overhead locker or checked bags.

If you usually carry two power banks, leave one at home.

Check-In and Dubai Terminal 2

Online check-in opens 48 hours before departure and closes 75 minutes before. Some routes need counter check-in so staff can check visas and documents.

Most flydubai flights leave from Terminal 2, with some from Terminal 3. The two terminals are far apart and Terminal 2 has no Metro station, so check your terminal and allow time.

Families, Special Assistance and Pets

Families can add infants and children to one booking, and infants under two travel on an adult’s lap.

Special assistance should be requested at least 48 hours before the flight. Pets are generally not carried in the cabin, so check the rules before booking.

How to Find Cheap flydubai Flights

• Use the fare calendar: prices vary a lot by day on Gulf routes.
• Travel midweek: demand is often lower.
• Book holidays early: Eid, school holidays and winter peaks sell out.
• Compare airlines: use the FlightSelects flight search to see flydubai next to Air India Express, IndiGo, Emirates and others.

flydubai vs Emirates vs Air India Express

All three fly between Dubai and South Asia, but they are very different products.

See our Emirates guide and Air India Express guide to compare.

Connecting and Arriving in Dubai

If both flights are on one ticket, bags are usually checked through to your final destination. Allow plenty of time if you need to change between Terminal 2 and Terminals 1 or 3.

The Dubai Metro serves Terminals 1 and 3; from Terminal 2, take a taxi. You can also book an airport transfer in advance at a fixed price.

Is flydubai a Good Airline?

Yes. flydubai offers direct flights to places that are hard to reach, a modern Boeing 737 fleet, a real Business Class and Skywards miles. The cheapest fares include little, so add the bags you need before comparing prices.

For more options, see our Etihad guide, our airline guides and the FlightSelects travel blog.

Facts checked in October 2026 against the flydubai checked baggage page and Gulf News reporting on UAE power bank rules. Rules change, so check the official flydubai website before you travel.