flydubai inaugurates flights to Riga in Latvia

flydubai has inaugurated direct flights between Dubai and Riga, Latvia, further strengthening its footprint in Central and Eastern Europe.

Launch date:
The inaugural service began on 12 December 2025.

First UAE carrier:
flydubai is the first airline from the UAE to operate nonstop flights to Riga.

Frequency:
The route will operate three times per week from Dubai International Airport (DXB, Terminal 3) to Riga International Airport (RIX).

Passenger forecast:
flydubai expects to carry around 35,000 passengers annually on this route.

Codeshare with Emirates:
Travelers benefit from access to a combined network of 240+ destinations worldwide.

Statements from officials:
- UAE Ambassador to Latvia emphasized the route as a “new bridge for tourism and trade.”
- Riga Airport officials welcomed the service as a boost to connectivity with the Middle East and Asia.

Strategic impact:
- Enhances tourism flows between Latvia and the UAE.
- Provides Latvian travelers easier access to leisure destinations such as the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Zanzibar, and Thailand via Dubai.

Customer experience:
- Business Class: Lie-flat seats, international cuisine, and personalized service.
- Economy Class: Complimentary inflight entertainment and meals.

This new Riga route complements flydubai’s recent expansion into Vilnius, Lithuania, positioning the airline as a key connector between the Gulf and the Baltic region.