Historic Direct Air Link Established Between Dubai and Riga
flydubai, the Dubai-based carrier, officially inaugurated its first direct service between Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Riga Airport (RIX) on December 12, 2025. This new route establishes a crucial direct air link between the United Arab Emirates and Latvia, with flights operating three times a week. The inaugural flight was met with a warm reception by airport officials in Riga, underscoring the significance of this new connection.
The launch positions flydubai as the first UAE airline to offer nonstop flights to the Latvian capital, a move expected to significantly enhance connectivity, tourism, and business relations between the two nations.
Boosting Tourism and Economic Ties
Officials from both countries highlighted the strategic importance of the new service. Her Excellency Noora Juma, the UAE Ambassador to Latvia, stated that this day 'marks a new phase in the friendship between the United Arab Emirates and the Republic of Latvia.' She emphasized that the direct flights would 'open doors to more opportunities for tourism, business and cultural exchange.'
The new flights are projected to boost tourism flows in both directions and support growing economic ties. Latvian travelers will gain direct access to Dubai's global hub and onward connections to over 240 destinations worldwide through flydubai's codeshare partnership with Emirates. Conversely, UAE residents will have a direct gateway to explore the cultural and natural attractions of the Baltic and Scandinavian regions.
Enhanced Passenger Experience and European Expansion
The Dubai-Riga route will be operated by Boeing 737 aircraft, part of flydubai's modern fleet. Passengers can expect an elevated travel experience, with Business Class offering spacious lie-flat seats and internationally-inspired cuisine, while Economy Class provides complimentary inflight entertainment and meals.
Jeyhun Efendi, Divisional Senior Vice President of Commercial Operations and E-commerce at flydubai, commented on the launch, stating that the new service 'strengthens flydubai's growing presence in Europe and supports our strategic commitment to expanding connectivity across underserved markets.' The addition of Riga expands flydubai's European network to 35 destinations across 20 countries, including recent launches to Chișinău, Iași, and Vilnius.
Laila Odiņa, Chairperson of the Board of RIX Riga Airport, expressed delight at flydubai's new service, noting it will 'strengthen the connectivity of the Baltics' largest airport' and offer passengers high-quality service and an extensive route network.
5 Comments
Habibi
Unnecessary carbon footprint for a route that probably has alternatives. Not convinced.
ZmeeLove
More flights mean more emissions. We need to be thinking greener.
Muchacho
While direct flights are great for economic growth and convenience, we should also consider the environmental impact of increased air travel in the long run.
Coccinella
Enhanced connectivity is beneficial for many, however, we must ensure that the benefits are distributed equitably and don't solely serve corporate interests or high-end travelers.
Muchacha
The cultural exchange sounds promising, but there's always a risk of local traditions being diluted by a surge in international tourism if not managed carefully.