Knowing the airline’s luggage policy is essential when making travel plans in order to prevent unforeseen costs and issues. The luggage policy of Air Arabia Baggage Policy operating in the Middle East and North Africa, is comparatively simple and adaptable. Knowing Air Arabia’s luggage rules can help you pack sensibly and have a hassle-free trip, whether you’re traveling on a tight budget or on business. All facets of Air Arabia’s luggage allowance are covered in this thorough guide, including checked and hand baggage, excess baggage fees, special baggage, and more.
1. Overview of Air Arabia
Before diving into the baggage specifics, it’s helpful to understand a bit about the airline. Air Arabia operates from its hubs in Sharjah (UAE), Casablanca (Morocco), and Alexandria (Egypt). Known for its affordable fares, the airline offers a no-frills flying experience but provides various add-ons, including baggage, meals, and seat selection.
Because Air Arabia operates on a low-cost model, many services, including baggage, are not included in the base fare. This makes it essential for travelers to understand and pre-book their baggage allowances to save money and ensure a smooth experience.
2. Cabin Baggage Policy
Air Arabia’s cabin baggage policy is fairly generous compared to many budget airlines. Here’s what you’re allowed:
✅ Standard Cabin Baggage Allowance:
- One piece of hand baggage per passenger.
- Maximum weight: 10 kg (22 lbs).
- Maximum dimensions: 55 cm x 40 cm x 20 cm (22 x 16 x 8 inches), including handles, wheels, and side pockets.
✅ Additional Personal Items:
Passengers are allowed to bring certain personal items onboard in addition to their cabin bag. These include:
- A handbag or small briefcase
- A laptop bag
- Duty-free items purchased at the airport
❌ Note:
- Cabin baggage is strictly monitored at boarding gates.
- If your bag exceeds the weight or size limit, it may be checked in and subject to additional charges.
3. Checked Baggage Policy
Unlike full-service carriers, Air Arabia does not include checked baggage in its standard fare. Instead, passengers can pre-purchase baggage allowance at the time of booking or later via the website or customer service.
✅ Prepaid Baggage Allowance Options:
Air Arabia offers the following baggage slab options:
- 20 kg
- 30 kg
- 40 kg
You can choose your allowance depending on the length of your trip or packing needs.
✅ Important Notes:
- The maximum weight per checked bag is 32 kg.
- No limit on the number of bags, as long as the total weight does not exceed the purchased allowance.
- Buying your baggage allowance online in advance is significantly cheaper than paying at the airport.
4. Airport Baggage Charges
If you haven’t pre-booked your baggage, you will have to pay at the airport, which is more expensive.
💰 Airport Baggage Fees (Approximate and Subject to Change):
- Up to 20 kg: Higher than online booking fees
- Per kg excess: Additional charge per kilogram over your allowance
⚠️ Tip:
- Always pre-book baggage online before your flight to save costs and avoid delays.
5. Excess Baggage Policy
If your baggage exceeds your purchased allowance, you will need to pay excess baggage fees.
📦 Excess Baggage Rates:
- Charged per kilogram
- Varies by route (typically ranges between AED 25 – AED 40 per kg)
🧾 Example:
If you pre-booked 20 kg and your luggage weighs 25 kg, you’ll pay the excess rate for the extra 5 kg.
6. Sports Equipment and Special Items
Air Arabia allows passengers to carry sports equipment and oversized baggage, but they must be declared and paid for in advance.
⚽ Sports Equipment (Examples):
- Golf bags
- Surfboards
- Bicycles
- Skis or snowboards
🧳 Fees:
- Often counted as part of your checked baggage if within your purchased allowance.
- If it exceeds your allowance, excess baggage fees apply.
📋 Rules:
- Items must be properly packed.
- Notify the airline in advance for large or fragile items.
7. Infant and Child Baggage Policy
Air Arabia provides a specific baggage allowance for passengers traveling with infants or children.
👶 Infant Baggage Allowance:
- Infants (under 2 years, not occupying a seat) are allowed:
- 10 kg of check-in baggage
- A foldable stroller or car seat free of charge
🧒 Children (2+ years):
- Same baggage rules as adults. You need to purchase their baggage allowance separately.
8. Baggage Policy for Connecting Flights
If you have connecting flights with Air Arabia or mixed carriers, baggage policies may vary.
🔁 Connecting Flights on Air Arabia:
- Baggage will typically be transferred automatically if booked on a single itinerary.
- You will need to ensure that your total baggage fits within the lowest allowance of all segments.
9. Lost, Damaged, or Delayed Baggage
Air Arabia has procedures for dealing with lost, damaged, or delayed baggage.
📍 Lost or Delayed Baggage:
- Report immediately at the Air Arabia baggage service desk at the arrival airport.
- Provide your baggage tag and travel details.
🔧 Damaged Baggage:
- File a complaint before leaving the airport.
- Compensation depends on the nature and extent of the damage and follows international aviation guidelines.
11. Tips to Save on Air Arabia Baggage Fees
To make the most of your travel budget, here are some practical tips:
- Book baggage allowance early – at the time of booking or at least 24 hours before the flight.
- Weigh your bags at home to avoid surprises at the airport.
- Pack efficiently using packing cubes and vacuum bags.
- Use a carry-on smartly – maximize your 10 kg hand baggage.
- Share baggage allowance with family members (if total weight is under one booking).
12. Final Thoughts
Your trip will go much more smoothly if you understand them. It’s crucial to prepare ahead of time, determine how much luggage you’ll need, and reserve your allowance in advance to avoid incurring extra costs because baggage is not included by the ticket price. Air Arabia maintains an excellent mix between cost and convenience with its wide hand luggage limitations and various baggage slab choices. If you have these instructions close at hand, you’ll be able to pack and check in like a pro whether you’re traveling for work or pleasure.
