September 3, 2025 | Dubai, UAE: With Wizz Air’s withdrawal from Abu Dhabi, the pocket-friendly aviation in the Emirates is taking a new turn with the upcoming low-cost airlines. But despite this exit, commuters still have reasonable travel options. The spectrum of low-cost airlines in the UAE remains intact, with multiple airlines gearing up to provide convenience.

Wizz Air’s Backing Out and Its Impact

Since September 1, the airline has stopped providing its aviation services in Dubai, marking the end of 6 years in the UAE. Expert analysts cite international instability, engine turbulence, extreme climatic conditions, and inadequate access to routes as the key reasons behind this decision

The news was displeasing for low-budget passengers who depended on its cheap fares across the Middle East, Asia, and Europe. Industry analysts recommend that prices may increase up to 50% in the short term, especially for routes operated by Wizz Air. 

It has left a mark on the aviation industry, but the other low-cost airlines in the UAE are already formulating their strategies to ensure that accessibility remains within one’s reach.

Alternatives Among Low-Cost Airlines in the UAE

Even after Wizz Air’s withdrawal, the UAE continues to offer aviation services through native airline carriers.

1. Air Arabia

Air Arabia Sharjah is the biggest low-fare airline covering destinations across Europe, Asia, and Africa. Its collaboration with Air Arabia Abu Dhabi is upscaling with an increment in capacity for this year, adding new routes to Amman, Beirut, Almaty, and Baku.

2. Flydubai

Working from Dubai International Airport, flyDubai has integrated its vast network to over 130 destinations globally. The aviation company made a $611 million profit in the previous year, maintaining its position as one of the budget carriers. With Boeing 737’s comfortable services, it connects Dubai to serene travel destinations and business-led hubs at convenient prices.

3. Flynas

 Originating in Saudi Arabia, it has been frequently operating in the UAE market. The airline connects Dubai and Abu Dhabi with destinations such as Riyadh, Tbilisi, and Brussels, boosting its operations among low-cost airlines in the UAE.

International Budget Carrier Options

Indigo and Air India Express are the most suitable options for travellers between India and the UAE, with the highest number of flights at reasonable fares. SwissJet also has cost-efficient India-bound routes. 

Pegasus Airlines, located in Turkey, remains a leading option in Sharjah and Dubai, used as a link for further travel in other continents. Salam Air from Oman also has budget-friendly options from Muscat, expanding its services to Baku and Istanbul.

Altogether, they provide a broad variety of low-cost airlines in the UAE, making sure the market remains intact even after recent changes.

Outlook for Low-Cost Airlines in the UAE

Passengers’ requests for accessible flights in the UAE.  The regional Airport witnessed an increase in travel during the first half of this year, demonstrating a surge in leisure and work-related travel. 

To manage this surging demand, Air Arabia is operating its services swiftly, whereas Etihad has also initiated new routes between this year and the beginning of next year, which are similar to previous airline destinations. 

Experts predict that as the gap-filling increases, the prices will decrease slowly, giving commuters access to both local and international low-cost choices. In the future, the low-cost airlines in the UAE look prominent with a mix of local and international carriers working relentlessly to provide convenient services. 

While Viz Air’s withdrawal may have created a gap, the arrival of new airlines like Air Arabia, flydubai, and flynas ensures that travellers will perceive plenty of pocket-friendly options.

The exit of Wizz Air Dubai marks the end of the airline’s services, but also a new wave of convenient alternatives for flying. With airlines introducing new routes and services, the low-cost airlines in the UAE continue to grow and remain strong.

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