EK vs SQ · 2026 comparison

Emirates vs Singapore

Emirates and Singapore are closely matched on the things we compare. Here's how they compare on bags, fees, comfort, reliability and loyalty.

Verified Oct 17, 2026By Steven MoHow we check Report a correction

Emirates

EK

No clear category wins

    Singapore

    SQ

    No clear category wins

      Quick verdict

      Emirates and Singapore are closely matched on the things we compare. Both include a carry-on on every fare.

      Carry-on size
      Emirates: 55 × 38 × 20 cm · Singapore: 115 cm total
      Carry-on on the cheapest fare
      Emirates: Included on every fare · Singapore: Included on every fare
      First checked bag (regular economy)
      Emirates: 2 free bags · Singapore: 2 free bags

      Side by side

      EmiratesSingapore
      Bags
      Carry-on size55 × 38 × 20 cm115 cm total
      Carry-on on the cheapest fareIncluded on every fareIncluded on every fare
      Carry-on weight limit7 kg (15.4 lb)7 kg (15.4 lb)
      Personal itemMust fit under the seat40 × 30 × 10 cm
      First checked bag (regular economy)2 free bags2 free bags
      Network
      AllianceNoneStar Alliance
      Loyalty programEmirates SkywardsKrisFlyer
      Main hubsDXBSIN

      Highlighted values are better for travelers. Fees are for U.S. domestic economy flights; on-time data is 2025 U.S. DOT figures for each airline's own flights.

      Bags and fees

      Emirates allows a carry-on up to 55 × 38 × 20 cm (21.7 × 15 × 7.9 in), and Singapore up to 115 cm total (45.3 in).

      Both include it on their cheapest fares.

      Carry-on weight limits: 7 kg (15.4 lb) on Emirates, 7 kg (15.4 lb) on Singapore.

      Personal items: anything that fits under the seat on Emirates, and 40 × 30 × 10 cm (15.7 × 11.8 × 3.9 in) on Singapore.

      Emirates includes two bags with Economy Saver on flights between the U.S. and Dubai, and Singapore includes two bags with Economy Standard on flights between the U.S. and Singapore.

      Basic economy

      Emirates (Economy Special): Every Economy fare includes the 7 kg carry-on.

      Singapore (Economy Lite): Every Economy fare includes the 7 kg carry-on.

      Loyalty and where they fly

      Emirates is not in an alliance and Singapore is in Star Alliance.

      Loyalty programs: Emirates Skywards (Emirates) and KrisFlyer (Singapore).

      Emirates's main hubs are Dubai (DXB). Singapore's are Singapore (SIN). The best choice often comes down to which airline flies nonstop from your airport.

      Which should you book?

      Choose Emirates if you want…

      • nonstops from DXB

      Choose Singapore if you want…

      • to earn and use Star Alliance miles and status
      • nonstops from SIN

      On a route both fly, the cheaper ticket isn't always the cheaper trip: add the bags you'll actually bring, and check the fare rules before you book.

      Emirates vs Singapore FAQ

      It depends on what matters most to you. Emirates and Singapore are closely matched on the things we compare. If they fly the same route, compare the total price with bags included.

      Deals on Emirates, Singapore and more

      Whichever airline you prefer, we'll email you when fares from your home airports drop well below normal.

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