Air travel involves a balance of rights and responsibilities for both passengers and airlines. To ensure a smooth and fair experience, travelers need to understand their entitlements and obligations.

This guide provides a detailed, point-by-point explanation of passenger rights and responsibilities, covering baggage, flight cancellations, delays, denied boarding, and special needs accommodations. By familiarizing themselves with these guidelines, passengers can navigate air travel with confidence and clarity.

Passenger Rights

1. Baggage Rights and Responsibilities

• Right to Transport Baggage: Passengers can bring baggage as per their reservation, including carry-on and checked luggage, within the airline’s size, weight, and quantity limits.
• Excess Baggage: Additional fees apply for baggage exceeding the allowed limits.

• Compensation for Delayed Baggage:

  • 148 SDR for the first day of delay.

  • 60 SDR for each subsequent day, up to a maximum of 1288 SDR.

• Compensation for Lost or Damaged Baggage:

  • Up to 1288 SDR for lost baggage.

  • Up to 1288 SDR for damaged baggage, unless the damage is due to inherent flaws.
• Declaration of High-Value Items: Passengers must declare high-value items in advance to qualify for higher compensation.
• 21-Day Rule: If baggage is missing for 21 days, it is considered lost.

2. Force Majeure

• Airlines’ Obligations: Notify passengers of changes and provide necessary support during extraordinary events.
• Exclusions: Airlines cannot claim force majeure for technical issues, operational errors, or negligence.

• Passenger Rights:

  • Cancel the contract if delays exceed 3 hours for domestic flights or 6 hours for international flights.

  • Receive a full refund without deductions.

3. Flight Cancellations

• Permitted Cancellations: Only for force majeure, safety, or security reasons, supported by GACA reports.

• Passenger Options:

  • Accept alternative flights.

  • Receive compensation if they decline alternatives.

• Compensation Structure:

  • 50% of the ticket value if notified 60-14 days before departure.

  • 75% if notified 14-24 hours before.

  • 150% if notified within 24 hours.

• Discounted Flights: Compensation based on the highest fare in the booked class.

• Limited Flight Airports: Airlines must arrange alternative transportation.

4. Class Downgrades

• Passenger Agreement: If passengers agree to a lower class, airlines must refund the price difference and provide 50% of the difference as compensation.
• Contract Termination: Passengers can cancel the contract and receive a refund plus 200% compensation.

5. Denied Boarding

• Higher Class Availability: Airlines cannot deny boarding if seats are available in a higher class.

• Passenger Rights:

  • Informed of their rights.

  • Offered alternative flights or a refund with 100% compensation.

• Special Needs Passengers: Entitled to 200% compensation if denied boarding.

6. Flight Delays

• Notification: Passengers must be informed of delays at least 45 minutes before departure, with updates every 30 minutes.

• Compensation:

  • 50 SDR for delays of 3-6 hours.

  • 150 SDR for delays over 6 hours.

• Contract Termination: Passengers can cancel the contract for delays exceeding 2 hours, receiving a full refund.

• Extended Delays: Delays over 5 hours are treated as cancellations.

7. Advancing Flights

• Permitted Reasons: Only for safety or security reasons.

• Passenger Options:

  • Accept the new flight.

  • Choose an alternative flight with compensation for delays.

• Contract Termination: If the contract is terminated, the flight is treated as canceled.

8. Tarmac Delays

• Airlines’ Obligations: Provide access to toilets, proper ventilation, food, drinks, and communication options.
• Passenger Rights: After 3 hours, passengers may choose to disembark.

9. Stopovers and Connecting Flights

• Single Journey: Connecting flights are considered a single journey.
• Passenger Information: Airlines must inform passengers of stopovers and the actual carriers for each segment.
• Unannounced Stopovers: Passengers are entitled to 100 SDR compensation per stop.
• Contract Termination: Passengers can cancel their contract for added stopovers, receiving a full refund.
• Security-Related Stops: Exempt from compensation.

10. Passengers with Disabilities and Special Needs

• Disclosure: Passengers must disclose disabilities or special needs during booking.
• Equipment Transport: Airlines must transport necessary equipment free of charge and ensure it arrives with the passenger.
• Wheelchair Delay: An alternative must be provided immediately, with 100 SDR compensation if unavailable.
• Denied Boarding: Entitled to 200% compensation if denied boarding.

11. Care and Support

• Refreshments: Provided after 1 hour of delay.
• Meals: Provided after 3 hours of delay.
• Accommodation: Provided after 6 hours of delay.

Passenger Responsibilities

• Review Terms: Understand the carriage contract before booking.

• Accurate Information: Provide correct contact details during booking.

• Timely Arrival: Arrive at the airport on time and follow airline instructions.

• Travel Documents: Complete all required travel documents.

• Disclosure: Disclose any disabilities or special needs during booking.

• Behavior: Adhere to public decency and safety regulations; avoid disruptive behavior.

This guide ensures that passengers are well-informed about their rights and obligations, fostering a fair and efficient air travel experience for all. By understanding these points, travelers can better navigate their journeys and address any issues that may arise.

Emirates Skywards has officially reinstated points transfers from all major U.S. credit card loyalty programs, following a suspension that began in late May 2025 due to an upgrade of the airline’s internal loyalty management system.

This upgrade required Emirates and its partners—American Express Membership Rewards, Chase Ultimate Rewards, Bilt Rewards, Capital One miles, and Citi ThankYou points—to temporarily halt the ability to transfer points into the Skywards program while technical systems were rebuilt to accommodate the new platform.

The blackout period varied by issuer, with Bilt pausing transfers from May 27 to June 19, Chase from May 29 to June 30, and Amex implementing a suspension from May 28 with no initially announced end date.

The restoration of transfer capability comes as a relief to travelers who rely on Skywards for premium cabin redemptions, especially since Emirates is often the most direct route to booking its sought-after business and first class seats, despite higher award costs and carrier-imposed surcharges. Notably, the transfer process appears to be functioning smoothly, with many users reporting instant transfers, though times may vary by issuer.

However, significant changes are on the horizon. From July 27, 2025, Citi ThankYou points will transfer to Emirates Skywards at a reduced 5:4 ratio, meaning 1,000 Citi points will yield only 800 Skywards miles—a 20% devaluation from the previous 1:1 rate. There is speculation that similar changes could occur with other issuers, though no announcements have been made.

Additionally, Emirates now restricts first-class award redemptions to Skywards elite members, but travelers can still access first-class seats by transferring points to partner programs like Qantas Frequent Flyer, which maintains a 1:1 transfer ratio with several U.S. credit cards.

Emirates Skywards also maintains partnerships with numerous airlines, including Air Canada, Bangkok Airways, Copa Airlines, Japan Airlines, Korean Air, and Qantas, providing members with a broad range of options for earning and redeeming miles beyond Emirates flights. The recent developments underscore both the continued value and evolving landscape of the Skywards program for frequent flyers and points enthusiasts

Emirates and Uber have entered into a comprehensive strategic partnership aimed at transforming the travel experience for UAE-based passengers by tightly integrating air and ground transport, enhancing convenience, and expanding loyalty rewards.

The agreement, formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding signed by Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer Adnan Kazim and Uber’s Vice President and Head of EMEA Mobility Anabel Diaz Calderon, sets the stage for a range of new services and benefits for travelers across the Emirates network.

A central feature of the partnership is the development of an integrated booking experience, allowing Emirates customers to arrange Uber rides—whether for airport transfers or in-city travel—directly through the Emirates booking platform. This innovation is designed to streamline the entire journey, enabling passengers to seamlessly coordinate their ground transportation with their flight itineraries. For select travelers, Emirates and Uber are exploring the possibility of complimentary Uber rides to and from airports, delivering a true “door-to-destination” service.

The collaboration also brings significant enhancements to the Emirates Skywards loyalty program. UAE-based Skywards members will soon be able to earn Miles on Uber rides taken in select markets within the Emirates network, and plans are underway to allow these Miles to be redeemed for Uber ride credits or vouchers. This initiative is expected to be accompanied by exclusive promotions, bonus earning opportunities, and targeted offers to further incentivize travelers.

Beyond passenger transport, the partnership extends into logistics, with both companies set to explore the integration of Uber’s delivery infrastructure into Emirates Courier Express for last-mile deliveries. This could improve delivery speed and coverage, especially in densely populated urban areas, by leveraging Uber’s global delivery network.

Technical and commercial details, including the specifics of reward structures, eligible markets, and rollout timelines, are still being finalized. Emirates and Uber plan to launch joint marketing campaigns to promote the new services and benefits as they become available.

Industry analysts note that this partnership aligns with a broader trend of airlines seeking to control more of the passenger journey, providing holistic, digitally integrated travel solutions that meet rising customer expectations for seamless, end-to-end service.

Both companies have emphasized their commitment to redefining the travel experience for millions of passengers, with Emirates aiming to expand planning options and Uber gaining increased visibility among premium travelers and airport-centric demand in key hubs like Dubai. The partnership is expected to set a new standard for integrated travel and loyalty benefits in the region.

As families prepare for the busy school holiday travel season, Emirates is introducing an exciting new collection of toys and amenities designed especially for young travelers. With around one million children expected to fly with the airline this summer, Emirates is set to delight its youngest passengers with free bags, plush toys, and collectible items tailored to different age groups.

The new kids’ kits feature a variety of themes, including football, tennis, basketball, sailing, golf, horse riding, cycling, cricket, rugby, music, and literature. These thoughtfully designed kits include essential items and boredom-busting toys, made from sustainable materials and safety-certified to ensure a worry-free experience for parents.

For babies and infants up to two years old, the kits include a reusable changing mat, Naif nurturing cream, cleansing wipes, a wipe-clean bib, a spoon that doubles as a teether, a soothing vibrating plush toy that can be attached to a seat or stroller, and a collectible cozy blanket to keep little ones comfortable and entertained.

Children aged three to six receive a special themed backpack to keep their favorite belongings safe during travel. Options include a literature-inspired Tiny Treasures backpack, an adventure backpack, a football backpack, or a tennis crossbody backpack. These kits also come with the in-flight Fly with Me magazine, which now features collectible character cards, coloring pages, puzzles, and other engaging travel activities.

For kids aged seven to twelve, Emirates offers stylish bags from its latest lifestyle collection, including a collectible Big City crossbody bag, an explorer backpack, and a Training Day duffle bag. These kits are complemented by activity packs and headphones designed to keep older children entertained throughout the flight.

In addition to the onboard offerings, Emirates has made its Little Travellers’ collection available for purchase online. The range includes colorful caps, t-shirts, beach day lunch bags, water bottles, pencil cases, keyrings, and activity books. For young aviation enthusiasts, the airline offers cabin crew and pilot uniforms for children aged one to ten, as well as onesies for babies up to 18 months.

Emirates’ commitment to family-friendly travel is further reflected in its priority boarding, dedicated check-in areas, and specially designed play zones in airport lounges, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable journey for both children and their parents. With over 250 kids’ movies and TV shows, music, and up to 100 games available through the inflight entertainment system, young travelers are sure to have a memorable and fun-filled experience this summer.

Qatar Airways is elevating its culinary offerings through an exciting partnership with renowned French chef Yannick Alléno, whose 19 restaurants across seven countries have collectively earned 17 Michelin stars. This collaboration brings Alléno’s modern French cuisine to both inflight menus and premium lounge dining experiences.

First and Business Class passengers traveling on select flights between Paris and Doha will be the first to savor Alléno’s specially crafted inflight menus. These feature “ingredient-led cooking” and innovative techniques such as fermentation, reflecting the chef’s dedication to culinary artistry and innovation.

On the ground, Alléno’s acclaimed Pavyllon restaurant, known for its locations in Paris, Monte Carlo, and London, will make its airside debut inside Qatar Airways’ First Class Lounge at Doha Hamad International Airport. The lounge restaurant will mirror the Pavyllon concept with counter seating facing an open kitchen, offering guests an immersive dining experience akin to a live culinary performance.

Qatar Airways’ lounges at Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport will also showcase a selection of exclusive creations by Alléno, though specific details have yet to be announced.

Thabet Musleh, Qatar Airways’ Chief Retail and Hospitality Officer, emphasized the airline’s commitment to innovation and excellence, stating, “Chef Yannick Alléno one of the most celebrated names in global gastronomy represents a benchmark for excellence that reflects our shared passion for innovation, sophistication, and the art of hospitality.”

This partnership aligns with a growing trend among airlines to collaborate with award-winning chefs to enhance the onboard and lounge dining experience. For example, Air France recently teamed up with Daniel Boulud to create dishes for its La Première and Business Class passengers on flights departing the US, with the rollout starting in July.

Qatar Airways continues to set new standards in luxury travel by combining world-class gastronomy with exceptional service, ensuring that passengers enjoy unforgettable dining experiences both in the air and on the ground.

Emirates has officially launched its first Emirates World retail store in Singapore, marking a significant milestone in the airline’s 35-year presence in the city-state and signaling a bold new direction in travel retail.

Located at Odeon 333, just across from the iconic Raffles Hotel, the 330-square-meter store is designed as a warm, open-plan, lounge-like environment, featuring Emirates’ signature light and contemporary color palette with motifs inspired by the UAE’s national Ghaf Tree.

The store brings together expert travel planning and a premium shopping experience. Four dedicated customer service counters are staffed by knowledgeable consultants who provide tailored travel advice, exclusive fare deals, and detailed product demonstrations. Visitors can book flights, plan holidays, and receive personalized recommendations-all in a welcoming, relaxed setting.

A key highlight is the interactive First Class Suite installation, available exclusively in Singapore, allowing guests to step inside and experience the luxury of Emirates’ award-winning in-flight environment, complete with plush leather seats, ambient lighting, and privacy doors. The store also features smart technology, such as a ‘selfie mirror’ that lets travelers snap pictures against scenic destination backdrops.

Emirates is also introducing a curated selection of eco-conscious products, including upcycled travel pouches and document holders, reflecting the airline’s commitment to sustainability. Guests are welcomed with freshly brewed coffee, reinforcing Emirates’ hallmark hospitality on the ground.

The grand opening was attended by Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer, Adnan Kazim, alongside representatives from the UAE Embassy and Changi Airport Group, underscoring the strategic importance of Singapore as a hub for Emirates in Southeast Asia. In 2024 alone, Emirates carried over 800,000 passengers between Singapore and Dubai, operating four daily flights to Dubai and beyond, plus a daily service to Phnom Penh.

This store is the first of more than 40 planned worldwide as part of a S$35 million investment, positioning Emirates as a leader in premium, high-touch retail experiences that blend technology, personalization, and luxury. The new Emirates World store is set to redefine how travelers engage with the airline, offering a seamless, informative, and immersive space that brings the ‘Fly Better’ promise to life both in the air and on the ground.

Strategic Implications and Explanation

The Emirates World store is more than just a physical sales channel; it is a strategic move to deepen engagement with high-value travelers in a digital age. By combining personal service, interactive technology, and exclusive experiences, Emirates aims to differentiate itself in a competitive market and collect valuable customer insights for tailoring future offerings.

The investment in physical retail, alongside digital integration, allows Emirates to create a consistent and elevated brand experience across all touchpoints, ensuring that travelers receive the same level of care and luxury whether they are booking online or in person.

This initiative also positions Emirates to capitalize on the growing demand for experiential retail, where customers value face-to-face interactions and immersive experiences, especially when planning significant journeys. The store’s success could influence the broader travel industry, encouraging a renewed focus on high-touch, personalized customer service in the premium segment.