Boeing and flydubai recently celebrated the delivery of the airline’s first 737 MAX 8, making the Middle East carrier the first in the region to operate Boeing’s newest single-aisle airplane.
The latest delivery is the first of 76 737 MAX airplanes the airline will be adding to their all-Boeing fleet of 737s.
Ghaith Al-Ghaith, chief executive officer, flydubai, said: “We are delighted to receive our first Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft from our order made at the Dubai Airshow in 2013. This marked the largest single-aisle Boeing aircraft order placed in the Middle East. With this new chapter, we are looking forward to continuing our work with Boeing as we benefit from increased efficiency and are able to offer an enhanced customer experience.”
flydubai currently operates a fleet of 58 737-800s and has built a network of more than 95 destinations in 44 countries, from Russia in the north, Czech Republic in the west, Thailand in the east and Tanzania in the south.
Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO Kevin McAllister said: “flydubai’s growth in just nine years has been remarkable and Boeing is honored to have been part of this journey. This delivery marks another significant milestone in our partnership. We are confident that the market-leading efficiency and reliability of the 737 MAX will play a key role in flydubai’s continued success and complement its current Boeing fleet.”
Ken Gile, chief operating officer, flydubai, said: “As the first MAX customer in the region, we look forward to the further fuel and operating efficiencies that this aircraft will bring to our young modern fleet. Our flight crew share our excitement in operating one of the most highly anticipated commercial aircraft to enter service on our network.”
The 737 MAX incorporates features such as CFM International LEAP-1B engines, advanced technology winglets, Boeing Sky interior, large flight deck displays, and other improvements.
The 737 MAX is the fastest-selling airplane in Boeing history, accumulating more than 3,800 orders to date from 88 customers worldwide.
Boeing delivers first 737 MAX 8 to flydubai
Boeing delivers first 737 MAX 8 to flydubai
Dubai Shopping Festival’s sporting events turn city into hub for outdoor action
The Dubai Shopping Festival is raising the bar this winter with a high-impact sporting calendar that runs throughout December and January, transforming the city into a hub for elite competition, community fitness and outdoor action.
From professional basketball to baseball games, polo tournaments, half marathons, and horse racing, the festival brings together athletes, families and spectators for a dynamic winter season of sport. The diverse lineup of events strengthens DSF’s role in supporting Dubai’s active lifestyle, showcasing world-class sporting venues and encouraging community engagement during the city’s peak outdoor season.
Key sporting events taking place during DSF:
Dubai Racing Carnival
- Race days: Jan. 2, Jan. 9 and ongoing dates until March 13.
- Location: Meydan Racecourse
The flagship winter racing season features international horses and top jockeys.
More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/dubai-racing-carnivaland https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/dubai-racing-carnival-festive-friday
Silver Cup
- Date: Jan. 10-Jan.24
- Location: Al-Habtoor Polo Resort and Club
Silver Cup, part of Dubai’s prestigious polo calendar, sees six of the world’s best teams go head-to-head in a 20-goal handicap.
- More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/silver-cup
Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge — Build-Up Ride 4
- Date: Jan. 4
- Location: Al-Qudra Cycle Track
The last of the Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge Build-Up Rides is designed to help cyclists build their stamina ahead of the ultimate challenge.
- More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/spinneys-dubai-92-cycle-challenge-build-up-ride-4
Hood to Coast Dubai 2026
- Date: Jan. 10
- Location: Al-Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve
Hood to Coast Dubai challenges teams to conquer a series of relay segments through expansive desert trails, with each runner taking on their leg before passing the baton.
- More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/hood-to-coast
Skechers Performance Run — Race 4 (16k/10k/5k/3k)
- Date: Jan. 10
- Location: Meydan
Enjoy a fun day out for the whole family at this popular community race offering various distances, where participants can run along the traffic-free roads of Meydan.
- More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/skechers-performance-run
Marina Home Dubai Creek Striders Half Marathon 2026
- Date: Jan. 11
- Location: Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club
One of the largest races of its kind in the UAE and the Middle East, this half marathon will mark its 23rd edition in 2026.
- More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/dubai-creek-striders-half-marathon
A citywide sporting season
With events spanning elite international fixtures, community runs, polo tournaments, multi-distance races, trail challenges and recurring racing nights at Meydan, DSF strengthens Dubai’s winter season for sport, well-being and outdoor experiences.
