While flydubai might be known as a low-cost carrier, my recent business class journey with them proved that it punches well above its weight. With daily flights from Penang International Airport (PEN) to Terminal 3, Dubai International (DXB), flydubai has been serving Malaysia’s market with its fleet of 88 Boeing 737 aircraft since February 2024. Departing at 21:55, the seven-hour flight was an experience worth recounting.
Departure
Penang International Airport (PEN) may not be the biggest hub, but it certainly does not disappoint. With enough eateries and shops to keep travellers occupied, it even boasts the famed Nasi Kandar Line Clear for those wanting to indulge in Penang’s iconic dish before departure. My check-in process here was smooth and efficient just how I like it.
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Boarding
flydubai’s business class cabin features 10 seats in alternating 2-2 and 1-1 configurations. If you’re flying solo, aim for the throne seats in the middle row for maximum personal space. I, however, was seated in the first row, which meant having a neighbour. Thankfully, a handy partition offered much-needed privacy and doubled as a nifty storage space for my phone and glasses. An unexpected feature? Seatbelts that resemble those in a car rather than traditional airline belts — how unique!
Each seat is equipped with a 15.6-inch 1080p touchscreen, a pull-out table roomy enough for a laptop, and multiple charging options including AC, USB-A, and USB-C ports. At 160cm tall, I found the space more than adequate, and I reckon taller passengers would find it just as comfortable. One thing to note: amenity kits aren’t provided, but if you’re like me and travel with your own skincare essentials, this won’t be a dealbreaker.
Pre-flight & Dining
Once settled in, the friendly cabin crew handed out warm towels and pre-departure drinks which was always a nice touch. Shortly after takeoff, we were treated to snacks (think nuts and crisps) before our meal orders were taken. The dinner menu was surprisingly varied. My choice? A juicy chicken dish with potatoes, accompanied by salad, bread, and dessert. Quick service was much appreciated given the late hour as I’d rather snooze than battle a food coma at midnight.
Entertainment & Comfort
flydubai’s in-flight entertainment system exceeded expectations, offering a solid mix of recent blockbusters and classic films. Noise-cancelling headphones were also provided and did their job well.
After a quick skincare routine and stretch in the (compact but expectedly so given the aircraft’s size) lavatory, it was time to settle in for some shut-eye. With a long day ahead upon arrival, I couldn’t have been more grateful for the lie-flat seat. Fully reclining or adjusting to the perfect angle for maximum comfort was a luxury I wasn’t about to take for granted. On top of this, a plush pillow, a delightfully fluffy blanket, and individual air vents made for a cosy cocoon, with soft LED lighting enhancing the relaxed atmosphere.
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Arrival
Upon landing at DXB, business class passengers were whisked away in an exclusive bus to the terminal. If you’re flying out of Terminal 3 on your return journey with flydubai, you can check in via a dedicated business- and first-class zone. You can even enjoy the Emirates business class lounge.
Final Verdict: Worth the Upgrade?
For a reasonable price, flydubai’s business class offers a comfortable and well-rounded experience that ensures you arrive in Dubai well-rested. While it may not boast the extravagance of full-service airlines, it certainly delivers on all the essentials, proving that premium travel doesn’t have to come with a sky-high price tag.
Filed in: Airline Review / Dubai / flydubai
