WITH the commencement of direct flights from Penang to Dubai, connectivity between Penang and the Middle East is further enhanced, bringing about a positive impact on the state’s tourism industry.
State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai expressed his excitement about this when he welcomed the inaugural Penang-Dubai flight, ‘Flydubai’, on Feb 10 at the Penang International Airport.
“This not only marks the first airline from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to fly directly to Penang but also signals the beginning of a new era for our tourism industry.
“This strengthens Penang’s position as a prominent international tourist destination and business hub,” Wong, who is also the Paya Terubong assemblyman, said.
It is learned that Flydubai flies every day from Penang to Dubai, making a short stop in Penang for Langkawi flights.
Below is the schedule of the Penang-Dubai route flight :
| Flight Number | Departure Airport | Arrival Airport | Departure Time | Arrival Time |
| FZ 1603 | DXB | PEN | 04:10 | 15:05 |
| FZ 1603 | PEN | LGK | 16:05 | 16:45 |
| FZ 1604 | LGK | PEN | 19:45 | 20:45 |
| FZ 1604 | PEN | DXB | 21:45 | 01:05 |
In 2023, Penang has restored several flight routes, namely Guangzhou-Penang (China Southern Airlines), Xiamen-Penang (Xiamen Airlines), Doha-Penang (Qatar Airways), Bangkok-Penang (Firefly) Phuket-Penang (Firefly), Batik Air (Firefly) Banda Aceh-Penang (Firefly), and Hong Kong-Penang (Air Asia).
Currently, Penang has direct flights to 14 cities, showcasing its commitment to strengthening connections with major global destinations.
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix Siti Nuratikah Rahmat