Dubai, March 17, 2025 – As airlines around the world tighten their baggage policies to increase revenue, the days of free checked baggage may soon be a thing of the past. However, UAE-based airlines continue to offer some of the most generous baggage allowances, making them a preferred choice for long-haul travelers, families, and those carrying extra luggage.
Global Airlines Shifting to Paid Baggage Model
The latest blow to free baggage policies comes from Southwest Airlines, the only major U.S. carrier that still allowed free checked bags. Starting May 2025, the airline will introduce charges for most checked baggage, aligning with American Airlines, Delta, and United, which already charge for checked bags on domestic and economy-class fares.
Southwest Airlines CEO Bob Jordan defended the move, citing the need to return to profitability. However, airline analysts warn that such policies could erode customer loyalty. Henry Harteveldt, an aviation expert, remarked,
“This is how you destroy a brand, customer preference, and loyalty.”
UAE Airlines: A Haven for Free Baggage Allowance
Unlike their Western counterparts, UAE carriers continue to provide some of the world’s most generous baggage policies.
Emirates Airlines
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Economy Class: 20 kg to 35 kg, depending on fare tier
- Business Class: 40 kg
- First Class: 50 kg
- Special Routes: Passengers flying to the U.S., Canada, and South America can carry two pieces of luggage within weight limits based on class.
Etihad Airways
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Economy Class: 23 kg to 35 kg
- Business & First Class: 40 kg to 50 kg
- Some budget economy fares exclude free checked baggage, but travelers can pre-purchase baggage at reduced rates.
flydubai
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Economy Class: Up to three pieces of checked baggage (20 kg, 30 kg, or 40 kg) based on fare type.
- Business Class: 40 kg total allowance across three pieces.
Air Arabia (Budget Carrier)
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No free checked baggage in base fares, but passengers can purchase allowances at lower pre-booking rates, avoiding high last-minute airport fees.
Wizz Air Abu Dhabi (Ultra Low-Cost Carrier)
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Follows a "pay-for-what-you-use" model, with all checked baggage charged separately.
- This helps keep ticket prices low while providing options for those who need extra luggage.
What This Means for UAE Travellers
With global airlines moving towards paid baggage models, travelers need to be strategic about their choices to avoid unexpected charges.
Budget Travelers
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Expect higher baggage fees on low-cost airlines.
- Pre-book baggage at discounted rates on carriers like flydubai and Air Arabia to save money.
Frequent Flyers & Business Travelers
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Choosing airlines with higher free baggage allowances (like Emirates & Etihad) can result in long-term savings.
Passengers Traveling to the U.S. & Canada
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Airlines like Emirates & Air India still offer two free checked bags on flights to North America, making them a better choice for long-haul travel.
Travelers with Heavy Luggage
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Middle Eastern airlines remain the most generous in baggage policies.
- The recent Southwest Airlines baggage fee decision may push more travelers toward international airlines offering free checked bags.
Will UAE Airlines Follow the Global Trend?
Despite the global shift towards charging for checked baggage, UAE carriers have resisted this trend. Given their focus on premium service and customer satisfaction, it is unlikely that airlines like Emirates, Etihad, or flydubai will completely eliminate free checked baggage anytime soon.
For now, UAE travelers can continue to enjoy generous baggage allowances, making the region’s airlines a top choice for long-haul and frequent flyers. However, as global aviation trends shift, it remains to be seen how long this baggage advantage will last.
