How dnata Travel Is Helping UAE Travelers Save Millions On Flights And Holidays

Through their joint credit card program, dnata Travel and Emirates NBD have facilitated significant savings for UAE travellers. Since its inception nearly two decades ago, the program has allowed consumers to save a total of AED 209 million, with AED 17 million of those savings occurring in 2024 alone.

In 2024, the use of the Emirates NBD dnata World or Platinum Mastercard enabled over 10,000 travellers to save around AED 17 million. Cardholders earn up to 15% back in dnata Points on various purchases, including those made at dnata Travel and World Duty Free among others. These points, which are equivalent to UAE dirhams, can then be redeemed for a range of travel services.

A standout redemption story of 2024 involved a traveller using 70,000 dnata Points through dnata Travel's Instagram account for a luxury stay in the Maldives. The booking, valued at AED 120,000, saw the traveller paying the remaining AED 50,000 with their Emirates NBD dnata World credit card, further earning them AED 7,500 in points for future use.

For cardholders, 2024 brought forth an array of new benefits. Customers now have the option of 0% interest instalment plans on dnata Travel purchases, including an extension of this benefit to cover up to a year’s fees for most schools in the UAE. Additional perks include 'buy one, get one free' cinema ticket offers and 20% off on cinema snacks and drinks at all Reel Cinemas for World and Platinum cardholders.

The program also offers no foreign transaction fees, free access to over 1,000 airport lounges through Dragonpass, and travel vouchers worth AED 2,500 upon card activation. These enhancements not only increase savings but also enrich the overall travel experience for UAE residents.

Redeeming dnata Points is straightforward, either through dnataTravel.com or at any of dnata Travel’s 13 stores across the UAE. With hotel rates starting from as low as AED 205 per person, equivalent to 205 dnata Points, travellers have access to exclusive deals.

In 2024, air tickets emerged as the most popular redemption option, making up 82% of the total dnata Points used. This was followed by hotel and accommodation services at 13%, cruise bookings at 1%, and other services at 3%. This distribution highlights the varied preferences of travellers and the program's ability to cater to these diverse needs.