UAE-Latvia travel: flydubai becomes first airline to launch direct flights to Riga
New route expected to boost tourism and business ties
DUBAI – flydubai, the Dubai-based airline, has inaugurated its first direct service to Riga, Latvia, becoming the first UAE carrier to operate flights to the Baltic capital.
The inaugural flight, which marked the start of a three-times-weekly service between Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Riga Airport (RIX), was welcomed warmly by airport officials, highlighting the significance of this new link between the United Arab Emirates and Latvia.
Noora Juma, the UAE Ambassador to Latvia, said: “This day marks a new phase in the friendship between the United Arab Emirates and the Republic of Latvia. The launch of UAE airline flydubai’s direct flights between Dubai and Riga will not only enhance connectivity between our countries but also open doors to more opportunities for tourism, business and cultural exchange.”
The new route is expected to strengthen tourism flows in both directions and support the growing economic relationship between the UAE and Latvia. Latvian travellers will now gain direct access to Dubai’s global hub and onward connections to more than 240 destinations worldwide.
flydubai’s expansion
Jeyhun Efendi, Divisional Senior Vice President of Commercial Operations and E-commerce at flydubai, said: “The launch of our new service to Riga strengthens flydubai’s growing presence in Europe and supports our strategic commitment to expanding connectivity across underserved markets. Latvia is an exciting and dynamic market, and we are pleased to offer passengers a convenient, direct link between Dubai and Riga. As we continue to grow, we remain committed to investing in our fleet, our services and our onboard product to ensure an elevated experience for our customers.”
Alongside Riga, flydubai has recently introduced nonstop flights to Chișinău in Moldova, Iași in Romania, and Vilnius in Lithuania, taking its European footprint to 35 destinations across 20 countries. The airline now operates more than 135 destinations across 58 countries, with over 100 locations previously lacking direct air links to Dubai. Its modern fleet comprises 97 Boeing 737 aircraft.
Airport reception
Laila Odiņa, Chairperson of Riga Airport, welcomed the new service, stating: “We are delighted about flydubai starting its service from Riga Airport, which will not only strengthen the connectivity of the Baltics’ largest airport but also offer our passengers the opportunity to enjoy the airline’s high-quality service and extensive route network. The new direct connection to Dubai will benefit travellers wishing to explore this world metropolis and the tourism gems of the United Arab Emirates, and will enhance business and economic ties between our two countries.”
The addition of Riga also opens the door for UAE residents to explore the cultural and natural attractions of the Baltic and Scandinavian regions.
Enhanced passenger experience
flydubai customers flying on the new route can enjoy the airline’s upgraded Business Class product, featuring spacious lie-flat seats, internationally inspired cuisine, and personalised service.
Economy Class passengers will benefit from complimentary inflight entertainment and a selection of meals, reflecting the airline’s ongoing investment in enhancing the overall travel experience.
Flight and fare details
The new service operates as part of the flydubai and Emirates codeshare partnership, allowing passengers to book smoother itineraries on a single ticket with through-check-in of baggage. Flights from DXB Terminal 3 to RIX operate three times weekly.
Return Business Class fares from Dubai start at Dh7,505, with Economy Class Lite fares from Dh1,815. From Riga to Dubai, Business Class fares start at €1,440 and Economy Class Lite fares from €360. Tickets are available via flydubai.com, the flydubai app, the UAE contact centre (+971 600 54 44 45), flydubai travel shops, or authorised travel partners.