United Airlines and Emirates Sign Codeshare, United to Add Flights to Dubai Next Year

United Airlines on Wednesday announced a new codeshare with Emirates that will allow it to sell flights to Dubai starting next year.

Starting in March 2023, United will ticket a new direct flight between Newark and Dubai. From there, guests can connect to 100 different cities through the codeshare.

Then, starting in November, Emirates will offer its guests access to nearly 200 U.S. cities in the United network from its three biggest hubs—Chicago, San Francisco, and Houston. The two carriers will also have an interline agreement at eight other U.S. airports—Boston, Dallas, Los Angeles, Miami, JFK, Orlando, Seattle, and Washington D.C.

The agreement is still subject to government approvals.

"This agreement unites two iconic, flag carrier airlines who share a common commitment to creating the best customer experience in the skies," said United CEO Scott Kirby. "United's new flight to Dubai and our complementary networks will make global travel easier for millions of our customers, helping boost local economies and strengthen cultural ties. This is a proud moment for both United and Emirates employees, and I look forward to our journey together." 

United and Emirates will also allow guests to gain loyalty points through the agreement—United MileagePlus members can get miles by flying from Newark/New York to Dubai and then connecting to another one of those 100 different cities. The same goes for Emirates Skywards members traveling on United-operated flights.