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
EKNo clear category wins
Singapore
SQNo 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
| Emirates | Singapore | |
|---|---|---|
| Bags | ||
| Carry-on size | 55 × 38 × 20 cm | 115 cm total |
| Carry-on on the cheapest fare | Included on every fare | Included on every fare |
| Carry-on weight limit | 7 kg (15.4 lb) | 7 kg (15.4 lb) |
| Personal item | Must fit under the seat | 40 × 30 × 10 cm |
| First checked bag (regular economy) | 2 free bags | 2 free bags |
| Network | ||
| Alliance | None | Star Alliance |
| Loyalty program | Emirates Skywards | KrisFlyer |
| Main hubs | DXB | SIN |
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.
Keep comparing
Bag rules and fees
Other comparisons
Connecting at their hubs
Sources
Last verified Oct 17, 2026. Airlines change their rules without notice, so confirm with the airline before you fly.
- Emirates official baggage policy
- Upgraded Points: carry-on size chart for 63 airlines (updated May 16, 2026)
- Singapore Airlines official baggage policy
Read how we collect and check this data, or tell us if something's out of date.
Deals on Emirates, Singapore and more
Whichever airline you prefer, we'll email you when fares from your home airports drop well below normal.
Free plan available · 14-day free Premium+ trial · Cancel anytime
