Skytrax has unveiled its 2025 list of the top low-cost airlines in the Middle East, awarding Saudi Arabia’s flynas the number one spot and highlighting the rapid evolution of the region’s budget aviation market. The latest rankings reflect a sector defined by expanding route networks, rising passenger expectations, and a growing emphasis on operational efficiency.
Low-cost carriers have steadily reshaped the Middle East’s air-travel landscape, making flights more accessible for both business and leisure travelers. In 2025, Skytrax’s top five list showcases airlines that have excelled at balancing affordability with reliability and streamlined service.
Flynas: The Region’s Leading Low-Cost Carrier
Flynas secured the top ranking for 2025, reaffirming its role as Saudi Arabia’s premier low-cost airline. Headquartered in Riyadh, the carrier operates a modern Airbus fleet across domestic routes and regional destinations such as Egypt, Turkey, and the UAE. Its competitive pricing and punctual operations have made flynas a strong favorite among Saudi residents, expatriates, and international visitors.
The airline continues to expand steadily while maintaining a reputation for reliability. Optional extras — including meals, seat selection, and baggage — allow passengers to customize their travel experience while keeping base fares low. In 2025, flynas remains firmly positioned as the leading force in Saudi Arabia’s fast-growing budget aviation sector.
flyDubai: Expanding Dubai’s Global Reach
Ranked second, flyDubai has become a cornerstone of Dubai’s aviation ecosystem. Operating from Dubai International Airport, the airline offers affordable access to more than 100 destinations across the Middle East, Africa, Central Asia, and Europe.
Its modern Boeing 737 fleet features amenities uncommon among budget carriers, such as in-seat entertainment. The airline’s network strategy complements that of Emirates, connecting secondary and emerging markets that are not always served by full-service operators. Its blend of affordability, comfort, and flexibility continues to attract both business and leisure travelers in 2025.
flyadeal: Rapid Growth in Saudi Arabia’s Budget Market
In third place, flyadeal — the low-cost arm of Saudia — has quickly become a major competitor within the Kingdom’s aviation market. Based in Jeddah, it operates a young Airbus fleet and focuses on providing efficient, no-frills service at accessible prices.
Its modern branding and straightforward approach resonate strongly with younger passengers, budget-conscious families, and students. Despite its recent entry into the market, flyadeal has earned recognition for strong punctuality and operational performance. The airline continues to expand its regional footprint, serving destinations such as Egypt and Gulf countries while supporting Saudi Arabia’s broader aviation growth goals.
Air Arabia: The Middle East’s Original Low-Cost Pioneer
Air Arabia, ranked fourth, remains one of the most established budget carriers in the region. Launched in 2003 and based in Sharjah, the airline is widely regarded as a pioneer of the low-cost model in the Middle East.
With additional hubs in Ras Al Khaimah and Morocco, Air Arabia operates an extensive network that spans the Gulf, North Africa, South Asia, and beyond. Its straightforward cabins, competitive fares, and strong reliability attract leisure travelers and expatriate workers seeking affordable regional and international routes. In 2025, Air Arabia continues to serve as one of the region’s most trusted low-cost carriers.
Jazeera Airways: Kuwait’s Reliable Budget Option
Rounding out the top five is Kuwait-based Jazeera Airways. Operating from Kuwait International Airport, the airline connects passengers to destinations across the Gulf, Middle East, South Asia, and North Africa.
Jazeera is known for balancing affordability with dependable operations. Its simple yet comfortable cabins, combined with purchasable add-ons such as meals and baggage, appeal to cost-conscious travelers. The airline also operates a dedicated terminal in Kuwait, making it particularly attractive to business passengers seeking a smoother travel experience. Jazeera’s steady growth in fleet and network underscores its rising prominence in the regional low-cost market.
A Competitive and Diversifying Regional Market
Skytrax’s 2025 rankings underscore the diversity and ambition driving the Middle East’s low-cost aviation sector. Flynas and flyadeal are reshaping Saudi Arabia’s domestic and regional travel landscape, while flyDubai is reinforcing Dubai’s status as a global hub by serving markets often overlooked by full-service airlines. Air Arabia continues to lead with its pioneering model, and Jazeera Airways ensures Kuwait maintains a strong presence in the budget travel space.
Together, these airlines illustrate how the region’s low-cost carriers have become essential to improving connectivity, expanding travel accessibility, and supporting economic growth across the Middle East in 2025.
