Air Arabia PJSC is a United Arab Emirates-based aviation company specializing in low-cost international air transportation. Established on February 3, 2003 by an Amiri decree issued by Sultan bin Muhammad Al-Qasimi, it became the Middle East’s first low-fare airline. The airline officially commenced operations on October 28, 2003, achieving break-even within its first year.
Air Arabia operates an extensive network across 170 destinations spanning the Middle East, North Africa, Indian Subcontinent, Central Asia, and Europe. Its main base is at Sharjah International Airport, with additional operational bases in Ras Al Khaimah, Abu Dhabi, Alexandria, and Casablanca.
The company is organized into two primary segments:
- Airline – responsible for passenger transport, cargo services, aircraft rental, aviation training, and aircraft maintenance.
- Other Services – encompassing travel agencies, hotels, hotel apartment rentals, airline representative offices, and document transfer services.
Key Subsidiaries and Operations
- Air Arabia Abu Dhabi (2020–present) – Joint venture with Etihad Aviation Group.
- Air Arabia Egypt (2010–present) – Joint venture with Travco Group, based in Alexandria.
- Air Arabia Maroc (2009–present) – Joint venture in Casablanca serving European and African destinations.
- Fly Jinnah (2021–present) – Low-cost airline in Pakistan launched with Lakson Group.
- Former operations include Fly Arna, Air Arabia Jordan, and Fly Yeti.
Fleet Overview
Air Arabia operates an all-Airbus A320 family fleet, including:
- A320-200: 43 aircraft, 168–174 passengers
- A321LR: 6 aircraft, 215 passengers
- Orders: 120 new aircraft (A320neo, A321neo, A321XLR) for expansion by 2027
The airline is recognized for its distinctive livery, featuring a red bird logo extending from the tail to the fuselage with grey accents and bilingual branding on the aircraft body and engines.
Headquarters and Contact Information
Head Office: A1 Building, Sharjah Freight Center,
Sharjah International Airport, Sharjah, UAE
PO Box: 132
Air Arabia continues to expand its reach across MENA, Asia, and Europe, maintaining a focus on affordable travel, reliable service, and operational efficiency.
