Lufthansa

Lufthansa is more than just an airline; it represents a legacy of German engineering and aviation excellence that has connected cultures for decades. As a founding member of the Star Alliance, it offers a seamless travel experience that combines traditional hospitality with modern innovation. Operating from its primary hubs, including Frankfurt am Main, the carrier serves as a vital bridge between the Middle East, Europe, and the Americas. Whether you are traveling for a crucial business meeting or a long-awaited European vacation, flying with Lufthansa ensures a journey defined by comfort, reliability, and premium service.

Travelers choosing Lufthansa can expect a range of distinct advantages that make it a leader in the aviation industry:

• Extensive Global Network: Through its efficient hubs in Frankfurt and Munich, the airline offers excellent connections to hundreds of destinations across North America, Europe, and Asia.
• Premium Onboard Experience: From the luxurious First Class to the comfortable Premium Economy and Economy cabins, passengers enjoy ergonomic seating, high-quality in-flight entertainment, and curated dining options.
• Award-Winning Loyalty: The Miles & More program allows frequent travelers to earn and redeem points across a vast network of partners, adding value to every trip.
• Safety and Maintenance: With its subsidiary Lufthansa Technik, the airline is a global standard-setter for aircraft maintenance, ensuring the highest levels of safety and operational reliability.
• Digital Innovation: The airline provides cutting-edge digital services, including the FlyNet® broadband internet access on long-haul flights, keeping you connected above the clouds.

Travelers in the United Arab Emirates can easily connect with Lufthansa for reservations, inquiries, or support. Whether you are departing from Dubai or planning a future trip, the airline provides dedicated customer service channels to assist you. Below is the essential contact information for reaching the carrier within the region.

Official Website

For the most up-to-date flight schedules, online check-in, and bookings, it is recommended to visit the official regional website. Here you can also access the "Help & Contact" section for the Chat Assistant.

• Regional Website: https://www.lufthansa.com/ae/en/homepage

Contact Information

• Customer Service & Reservations (UAE): +971 600 59 5556
• Ticket Booking: +971 600 59 5556
• Online Support: Available via the "Help & Contact" page on the official website
• Mobile App: Lufthansa App (Available for iOS and Android)

Social Media

Stay updated with the latest news and service announcements through their official social media profiles:

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Lufthansa
• X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/lufthansa
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lufthansa
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lufthansa

Local Presence

Lufthansa operates primarily from major international airports in the region. For face-to-face assistance regarding departures, you can find their counters at the airport.

• Dubai Airport Desk: Dubai International Airport (DXB), Terminal 1, Departures Hall.

Support Availability

While digital channels and the AI Chat Assistant are available 24/7, telephone support hours may vary locally. It is advisable to check the official website for the current operating hours of the UAE service center or to use the global English-language hotline for urgent matters outside of local business hours.

Preparing for your journey with Lufthansa involves understanding the airline's baggage policies to ensure a smooth experience at the airport. Whether you are flying from Dubai to Europe or connecting further afield, knowing your allowance in advance can save you time and prevent unexpected fees. The airline offers a structured baggage concept that varies based on your travel class and fare type.

Carry-on Baggage

Lufthansa allows passengers to bring hand luggage into the cabin, ensuring essential items are always within reach. The allowance depends on the class of travel:

• Economy and Premium Economy Class: Passengers are permitted one piece of carry-on baggage weighing up to 8 kg.
• Business and First Class: Travelers can bring two pieces of carry-on baggage, each weighing up to 8 kg.

In addition to the main carry-on item, you may also bring one small personal item, such as a laptop bag or handbag (max. 30 x 40 x 10 cm). For parents traveling with infants, a baby carrier, child car seat, or foldable pushchair may usually be transported free of charge.

Checked Baggage Allowance

Your free baggage allowance is determined by the route and the booking class. For intercontinental flights, such as those connecting through Frankfurt am Main or Munich, the following general limits apply:

• Economy Light: Typically includes no checked baggage. Bags can be added for a fee.
• Economy Class: 1 bag up to 23 kg.
• Premium Economy Class: 2 bags up to 23 kg each.
• Business Class: 2 bags up to 32 kg each.
• First Class: 3 bags up to 32 kg each.

The maximum dimensions for any single piece of checked baggage (width + height + depth) should not exceed 158 cm. Bags exceeding these weight or size limits will incur excess baggage charges.

Excess and Special Baggage

If your luggage exceeds the weight or quantity limits of your fare, flat-rate fees will apply based on the route. It is significantly cheaper to book excess baggage online in advance than to pay at the airport counter.

Sports Equipment: Lufthansa is accommodating to active travelers. Standard sports baggage (such as ski equipment or golf bags) may be transported free of charge if it falls within your free baggage allowance limits regarding number and weight. If it exceeds these limits, special sports baggage flat rates apply. Space for bulky sports items should be reserved as early as possible.

Musical Instruments: Small instruments can be taken into the cabin as carry-on luggage. Larger instruments can be transported on an extra seat in the cabin (booked specifically for this purpose) or checked in as luggage in a hard-shell case.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

Safety is the top priority on board. Certain items are strictly regulated:

• Batteries and Power Banks: Must be carried in your hand luggage only and are not permitted in checked bags.
• Liquids in Carry-on: Must be in containers of no more than 100 ml each, placed in a transparent, re-sealable 1-liter plastic bag.
• Prohibited Items: Explosives, flammable substances, and sharp objects (like scissors or knives) are strictly forbidden in the cabin.

Tips for Efficient Packing

To ensure a hassle-free check-in process, consider these tips:

• Weigh at Home: Use a portable luggage scale to check your bag's weight before heading to the airport to avoid repacking in the queue.
• Label Your Bags: Attach a tag with your name and contact details (including a mobile number) inside and outside your luggage.
• Keep Valuables Close: Always pack medication, documents, money, and electronics in your carry-on baggage.

Pet Travel Rules

Traveling with pets requires careful planning, and Lufthansa strives to make the journey as comfortable as possible for your four-legged companions. Whether you are flying from Dubai or connecting through Europe, the airline offers distinct transport options tailored to the size and species of your animal, prioritizing their safety and well-being throughout the flight.

Transport Options

The airline provides three main ways to transport animals, depending on their weight, size, and the destination country's regulations.

In the Cabin (Carry-on)

Small dogs and cats are welcome in the passenger cabin if they meet specific criteria, allowing them to stay close to you during the journey.

• Carrier Dimensions: Maximum size is 55 x 40 x 23 cm. Soft-sided transport bags are recommended as they fit better under the seat.
• Weight Limit: The total weight of the pet plus the carrier must not exceed 8 kg.
• Allowed Animals: Only small dogs and cats are permitted in the cabin.
• Constraint: The animal must be able to stand, lie down, and turn around in its natural position within the closed carrier.
• Limit: Each passenger is typically limited to one pet carrier.

In the Cargo Hold (Checked Baggage)

Larger animals that cannot fit in the cabin are transported in the air-conditioned cargo hold as excess baggage (AVIH).

• Container Requirements: Animals must travel in an IATA-compliant transport crate that is escape-proof and ventilated.
• Size and Weight: There are no strict weight limits for the animal itself, but the crate must be large enough for the animal to move freely.
• Temperature: Transport may be denied if extreme temperatures at departure, transfer, or arrival airports pose a health risk.
• Provisions: Containers must be equipped with empty water and food bowls accessible from the outside.

As Air Cargo

For very large animals, unaccompanied pets, or flights to countries with strict import rules (like the UK or Australia), animals must be shipped via Lufthansa Cargo.

• When Required: Mandatory for animals traveling without the passenger or if the combined weight of the animal and crate is very high.
• Special Handling: This service offers professional care at animal holding stations, particularly at the Frankfurt am Main hub.
• Booking: This must be arranged separately through a specialized animal shipper or the cargo department.

Required Documentation

To avoid complications at check-in, ensure you have all necessary paperwork ready before your trip.

• Veterinary Passport: An official pet passport identifying the animal.
• Health Certificate: A veterinary certificate confirming the animal is fit for travel (usually issued shortly before the flight).
• Vaccinations: Proof of valid rabies vaccination (and others depending on the destination) is mandatory.
• Microchip: Identification via microchip is required for travel within and to the EU.
• International Forms: Specific entry forms for the destination country (e.g., EU health certificate).

Service Costs

Fees for transporting pets are calculated per direction and vary based on the route and method of transport. Prices are subject to change.

• In-Cabin Fee: Approximately EUR 60 to EUR 110 depending on the route.
• Cargo Hold (AVIH) Fee: Approximately EUR 100 to EUR 380, plus surcharges for transfers via Munich or Frankfurt.
• Note: Fees for shipping as Air Cargo are calculated differently based on volume and weight.

Preparation Tips

Helping your pet prepare for the flight can significantly reduce their stress levels.

• Acclimatization: Let your pet get used to the travel crate at home several days or weeks before the flight.
• Absorbent Material: Line the carrier with absorbent mats or newspapers; loose straw or litter is not allowed.
• Feeding: Feed your pet a light meal about 4 hours before departure, but ensure they remain hydrated.
• Calming: Consult your vet about stress reduction; sedatives are generally discouraged as they can affect circulation at high altitudes.

Restrictions

Certain limitations apply to ensure safety and compliance with international regulations.

• Snub-nosed Breeds: Breeds like Pugs, Bulldogs, or Persian cats are often restricted from the cargo hold due to respiratory risks; they may only travel as air cargo or in the cabin if small enough.
• Dangerous Breeds: Dogs classified as fighting breeds may require special heavy-duty crates (CR82) or may be prohibited.
• Age Limit: Puppies and kittens must typically be at least 12 to 15 weeks old, depending on the vaccination requirements.
• Service Animals: Recognized assistance dogs (e.g., guide dogs) travel free of charge in the cabin but must be registered in advance.

Important: Pet travel slots are limited on each aircraft. It is strongly recommended to contact Lufthansa Reservations at least 72 hours in advance to confirm availability and register your animal.

Loyalty Program

Lufthansa operates Miles & More, Europe’s leading frequent flyer and awards program, designed to reward loyal passengers with exclusive privileges and travel flexibility. Whether you are flying to Frankfurt am Main for business or connecting to global destinations, members accumulate valuable miles that can be exchanged for flights, upgrades, and lifestyle rewards.

Membership Tiers

The program features four distinct status levels, each unlocking progressively valuable benefits to enhance your journey:

• Member (Blue): The entry-level status where you start earning award and status miles immediately upon signing up.
• Frequent Traveller (Silver): Offers Business Class check-in, increased baggage allowance, and access to Business Lounges.
• Senator (Gold): Includes Senator and Star Gold Lounge access, upgrade vouchers, and priority baggage handling.
• HON Circle (Black): The top tier providing access to the First Class Terminal, limousine service, and the highest waitlist priority.

Earning Miles and Points

Accruing miles is straightforward and extends far beyond just air travel with the airline:

• Flights: Earn miles on every scheduled flight with Lufthansa and all Star Alliance partner airlines based on ticket price and distance.
• Hotel Partners: Accumulate points when booking stays with major hotel chains and booking platforms worldwide.
• Car Rentals: Earn miles for every rental with global partners like Sixt, Hertz, and Europcar.
• Everyday Shopping: Collect miles through co-branded credit cards or by shopping at partner retailers and duty-free stores.

Redeeming Miles

Members have flexible options for using their earned miles to enhance their travel experience or purchase goods:

• Award Flights: Book flights to destinations worldwide using miles to cover the fare and sometimes taxes.
• Cabin Upgrades: Use miles to upgrade from Economy to Premium Economy, Business, or First Class for superior comfort.
• WorldShop: Redeem miles for high-quality merchandise, including luggage, electronics, and travel accessories.
• Travel Extras: Pay for hotels, car rentals, or seat reservations using your accumulated mileage balance.

Alliance Membership

As a founding member of the Star Alliance, Lufthansa connects you to the world's largest global airline network:

• Global Reach: Enjoy seamless connections, through-check-in, and status recognition across 25+ member airlines globally.
• Key Partners: Coordinate travel easily with major carriers like United Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Air Canada, and SWISS.
• Unified Benefits: Star Alliance Gold status (achieved at Senator level) grants lounge access and priority boarding across the entire network.

How to Join

Becoming a member of Miles & More is free and simple for travelers in the United Arab Emirates:

• Registration: Sign up instantly via the official Lufthansa website or download the Miles & More mobile app.
• Immediate Use: Receive a digital service card immediately to start earning miles on your very next flight booking.

Services and Travel Classes

Flying with Lufthansa ensures a journey defined by German reliability, innovation, and hospitality. Whether you are departing from Dubai for a business trip or connecting through to the Americas, the airline offers a tiered service structure designed to meet the diverse needs of modern travelers. From the efficiency of Economy to the exclusive luxury of First Class, every cabin is equipped to provide a comfortable and seamless experience.

Cabin Classes

Lufthansa offers four distinct travel classes on its long-haul fleet, allowing passengers to choose the level of comfort and privacy that suits them best.

• Economy Class: Designed for comfort on long journeys, Economy seats feature ergonomic cushioning and adjustable headrests. Passengers enjoy ample legroom and a design that maximizes personal space, ensuring a relaxing flight to Frankfurt am Main or beyond.
• Premium Economy Class: For travelers seeking extra space without the price tag of Business Class, this cabin offers up to 50% more personal space compared to Economy. Perks include a generous baggage allowance, a welcome drink, and a practical travel kit to refresh during the flight.
• Business Class: Ideal for professionals and leisure travelers alike, Business Class transforms your seat into a fully flat bed almost two meters long. Guests enjoy priority boarding, access to exclusive lounges, and a privacy-focused cabin layout that allows for restful sleep or productive work.
• First Class: The pinnacle of luxury travel, First Class offers individual suites, sound insulation, and personalized service. Passengers experience exceptional culinary delights, including the famous caviar service, and access to the exclusive First Class Terminal at the Frankfurt hub.

Dining and Beverages

Culinary excellence is a hallmark of the onboard experience. The airline prides itself on serving high-quality meals that cater to international tastes while honoring its German heritage.

• Economy & Premium Economy: Travelers are served a choice of hot main courses, salads, and desserts. Complimentary beverages, including coffee, tea, soft drinks, wine, and beer, are available throughout the flight.
• Business & First Class: Menus are often curated by top international chefs, featuring multi-course gourmet meals served on fine china. The wine list is extensive, selected by world-champion sommeliers to complement the dishes perfectly.
• Special Meals: To accommodate dietary, religious, or nutritional requirements (such as Halal, gluten-free, or diabetic meals), passengers can pre-order special meals free of charge up to 24 hours before departure.

In-flight Entertainment and Connectivity

Boredom is not an option on board. The advanced in-flight entertainment system puts a world of content at your fingertips via personal touchscreens at every seat.

• Media Library: Choose from the latest Hollywood blockbusters, international cinema, TV series, audiobooks, and music albums.
• Live TV: On selected aircraft, passengers can watch live sports channels like Sport 24 to catch major games while in the air.
• FlyNet® Internet: Stay connected above the clouds with broadband internet access. Packages are available for messaging, surfing, or streaming, allowing you to keep in touch with family or colleagues on the ground.

Services for Families and Children

Lufthansa goes the extra mile to make flying exciting for young explorers and stress-free for parents.

• For Kids: The "JetFriends" program and onboard entertainment offer movies and games specifically for children. Kids also receive toys, puzzles, and coloring books to keep them occupied.
• Infant Care: Bassinets are available for babies on long-haul flights (reservation required). The crew can also warm up baby bottles and jars upon request.
• Children's Menus: Tasty and colorful meals designed by top chefs specifically for children can be pre-ordered, ensuring little ones enjoy their food as much as adults do.

Assistance for Passengers with Reduced Mobility

The airline is committed to barrier-free travel. Passengers requiring assistance can expect comprehensive support from the moment they arrive at the airport to their final destination. Services include wheelchair assistance, guidance for visually or hearing-impaired travelers, and support during transfers at major hubs like Munich. It is recommended to register these needs at least 48 hours before the flight to ensure seamless service.

Destinations

Lufthansa connects the United Arab Emirates to a comprehensive global network through its efficient hubs in Germany. The airline's primary base in Frankfurt am Main serves as a vital gateway, offering seamless transfers to major cities across Europe, North America, and beyond. Travelers can rely on frequent connections and optimized schedules designed to ensure a smooth journey to their final destination.

Travel Advice

Planning a smooth journey with Lufthansa begins long before you arrive at the airport. Whether you are departing from Dubai for a European getaway or a business trip to Germany, a few strategic choices can enhance your travel experience and offer better value.

Booking Smart for Better Fares

To secure the most competitive prices, it is advisable to book tickets at least 3 to 4 weeks in advance. Fares to major hubs like Frankfurt am Main and Munich are often lower for mid-week departures compared to weekends. Utilizing the "Best Price Search" feature on the official website helps visualize the cheapest dates across several months. Additionally, subscribing to the airline's newsletter ensures you are among the first to know about seasonal promotions and special offers often available for premium cabins.

Seamless Check-in and Mobile App

Travelers can bypass long queues by utilizing online check-in, which opens 23 hours before departure. The Lufthansa App is an indispensable tool for this process, allowing you to store your mobile boarding pass directly on your smartphone. Beyond check-in, the app provides real-time notifications regarding gate changes and flight delays. A standout feature is the digital baggage receipt, which helps you track your checked luggage via a link in the app once it has been dropped off at the counter.

Seat Selection and Comfort

Choosing the right seat is key to a comfortable flight. For passengers on "Economy Light" fares, seat selection may incur a fee if done in advance; however, you can usually select remaining seats for free during the 23-hour check-in window. If you require extra legroom or prefer to be near the exit for a quicker disembarkation, it is recommended to reserve these preferred seats at the time of booking, as they tend to sell out quickly on long-haul routes.

Travel Insurance

Unexpected events can disrupt even the best-laid plans. It is highly recommended to ensure you have valid travel insurance before flying. Comprehensive coverage should ideally include protection for trip cancellations, medical emergencies abroad, and luggage issues, providing peace of mind throughout your journey.

History of Lufthansa

The story of Lufthansa is a testament to resilience and innovation, mirroring the evolution of modern commercial aviation. While the brand's crane logo dates back to the 1920s, the modern company known today was officially founded in 1953 as "Aktiengesellschaft für Luftverkehrsbedarf" (Luftag), before reclaiming the traditional Lufthansa name in 1954. Operations commenced on April 1, 1955, marking the beginning of a new era in German aviation. Initially focusing on European routes, the airline quickly set its sights on connecting West Germany with the rest of the world.

The 1960s ushered in the jet age, a pivotal period that saw the carrier transform its fleet and capabilities. Lufthansa became the first non-American customer for the Boeing 737, famously contributing to the aircraft's development. This decade also marked the launch of long-haul jet services to destinations in North America and the Far East. The introduction of the Boeing 707 allowed for faster, more comfortable transcontinental travel, cementing the airline's reputation for technical excellence and reliability.

As the decades progressed, the airline continued to be a pioneer in fleet development. It was the launch customer for the Boeing 747-100 in Europe, embracing the "Jumbo Jet" era early on to meet rising passenger demand. The expansion of its main hub in Frankfurt am Main turned the city into one of the world's most important aviation gateways. In the 1990s, a second major hub was established in Munich, creating a dual-hub system that significantly increased capacity and connection options for international travelers.

A major turning point occurred in 1997 when the airline became a founding member of the Star Alliance, the world's first and largest global airline alliance. This strategic move revolutionized international travel by offering passengers seamless connections across a vast network of partner carriers. Around the same time, the company completed its full privatization, transitioning from a state-owned enterprise to a dynamic aviation group.

The 21st century has been defined by strategic acquisitions and fleet modernization. The Lufthansa Group expanded its portfolio by integrating major European carriers such as SWISS, Austrian Airlines, and Brussels Airlines, strengthening its position as a leading aviation powerhouse in Europe. Significant route launches continued to connect emerging markets, including increased frequencies to the Middle East, linking cities like Dubai directly to the heart of Europe.

Today, the airline continues to push boundaries with a focus on sustainability and digital innovation. It has invested heavily in next-generation aircraft like the Airbus A350 and Boeing 787 Dreamliner, which offer greater fuel efficiency and reduced noise emissions. Recent developments also include the rollout of the "Allegris" long-haul product, a complete redesign of all travel classes intended to provide a personalized and premium travel experience for the future.