On September 30, 2025, at the early hour of 1:10 a.m., FlyDubai’s flight FZ1025 took off from Dubai International Airport’s Terminal 3, bound for Male. The flight, which operates three times daily, is serviced by the Boeing 737 MAX 8 and promises a journey of four hours and fifteen minutes. For those in business class, the experience is meant to be one of comfort and convenience, but as this flight demonstrated, not everything goes as planned.
FlyDubai, a low-cost Emirati carrier, offers its passengers the opportunity to bid for upgrades. I seized this chance, placing a minimum bid of $245, which was accepted. This upgrade granted me access to the Emirates Business Class Lounge, an unexpected perk when flying from Terminal 3.
Checking In and Boarding
Checking in was a breeze, with no queues at the business class counter. Business class passengers enjoy an allowance of up to 40 kilograms of checked luggage and two cabin bags weighing a combined 14 kilograms. The loyalty scheme, Emirates Skywards, allows passengers to earn points, although FlyDubai is not part of a global alliance.
The business class cabin on the Boeing 737 MAX 8 features a 2-2 or 1-1 seating layout. My seat, 2B, was a lie-flat seat, offering a pitch of 45 inches and a length of 78 inches when fully reclined. Despite the comfort, the seat’s footwell was narrow, resembling an MRI machine.
Entertainment and Service Challenges
Upon boarding, passengers were informed of a malfunction in the entertainment system. Neither the screens nor the power outlets were operational, leaving passengers without in-flight entertainment or the ability to charge devices. The cabin crew, however, were empathetic and attentive, addressing our concerns with warmth and professionalism.
Soft refreshments were served before take-off, with champagne offered once at cruising altitude. The breakfast service included a choice of seasonal fruits, Greek yoghurt, and a selection of mains. I chose the Arabic mezze, a light option featuring vine leaves, hummus, and other delicacies.
Sustainability and Future Plans
FlyDubai supports the UAE’s commitment to achieving net zero emissions by 2050, aligning with broader regional sustainability goals. The airline’s extensive network includes destinations like Sicily, with plans to offer seasonal flights to Mykonos, Dubrovnik, Corfu, and Santorini.
The cost of a return business class ticket from Dubai to Male starts at approximately $3400. Despite the flight’s challenges, FlyDubai’s business class is considered one of the best budget options in the region. However, the malfunctioning aircraft left me feeling shortchanged, leading to a disappointing compensation offer of either a Dhs200 voucher or 5000 Skywards miles.
Final Thoughts
While FlyDubai’s business class offers significant value, my experience was marred by the lack of entertainment and the inadequate compensation. As the airline continues to expand its routes and focus on sustainability, addressing such service issues will be crucial for maintaining customer satisfaction.
Jenny Hewett, a seasoned travel writer, flew with assistance from Anantara Dhigu and Six Senses Kanuhura, upgrading at her own expense. Her insights reflect a commitment to exploring the nuances of air travel in the Middle East and beyond.
