Air Arabia: How the Multi-Hub Model of the Middle East's First Low-Cost Airline Works

History and positioning

As the first to introduce the low-cost model in the region, Air Arabia got several years ahead of local competition, building over time a recognized brand across several markets through joint ventures rather than with a single central base, a strategy that has allowed it to take root in several national markets at once.

The fleet

The parent company's fleet in Sharjah numbers more than 83 Airbus A320-family aircraft, with the arrival of the first A320neo in October 2025 as part of an overall order for 120 aircraft (73 A320neo, 27 A321neo and 20 A321XLR). Separately, the Abu Dhabi joint venture has expanded its dedicated fleet, aiming for a 40% increase in operating capacity during 2025.

Routes and network

From the bases of Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, Alexandria and Casablanca/Nador, the point-to-point network covers much of the Middle East, North Africa, South Asia and sub-Saharan Africa, a breadth of destinations that the multi-hub model makes it possible to reach without having to funnel all traffic through a single airport.

Fares and baggage

The fare model follows the classic low-cost scheme, with base fares that do not include checked baggage and differentiated price bands for seat selection and ancillary services; it is always worth checking which fare band you are buying before taking baggage or an assigned seat for granted.

What passengers say

Among travelers in the region, Air Arabia is generally considered a reliable option for short- and medium-haul links in the Gulf and North Africa, with the most positive verdict reserved for value for money on the routes with the most competition.

Air Arabia suits those who need to travel between the Gulf, North Africa and South Asia on a tight budget and with limited baggage, taking advantage of one of the region's widest point-to-point networks. It is less suitable for anyone who must change aircraft between two different joint ventures of the group, because not all of them share the same airport or the same integrated booking system. Always check which of the group's joint ventures operates the flight you are booking, because fare conditions can vary from one base to another.