Hand Carry Size Guide: Middle East Airlines vs. Philippine Airlines & Cebu Pacific (2026)
Planning to travel between the Middle East and the Philippines? Knowing your airline’s hand carry allowance can save you from unexpected fees and delays at the airport.
Here’s a quick comparison of the most popular airlines serving Filipino travelers.
| Airline | Cabin Baggage Size | Weight Allowance |
|---|---|---|
| Philippine Airlines (PAL) | 56 × 36 × 23 cm | 7 kg |
| Cebu Pacific | 56 × 36 × 23 cm | 7 kg |
| Emirates | 55 × 38 × 22 cm | 7 kg |
| Qatar Airways | 50 × 37 × 25 cm | 7 kg |
| Etihad Airways | 56 × 36 × 23 cm | 7 kg |
| Saudia | 56 × 45 × 25 cm | 7 kg |
| Kuwait Airways | 56 × 45 × 25 cm | 7 kg |
| Oman Air | 55 × 38 × 20 cm | 7 kg |
| Air Arabia | 55 × 40 × 20 cm | 10 kg |
| flydubai | 55 × 38 × 20 cm | 7 kg |
| Gulf Air | 45 × 40 × 30 cm | 6 kg |
Key Takeaways
- PAL and Cebu Pacific allow hand carry up to 56 × 36 × 23 cm with a 7 kg weight limit.
- Etihad Airways uses the same size and weight limit as PAL and Cebu Pacific, making it convenient for passengers connecting to the Philippines.
- Emirates, Qatar Airways, Oman Air, and flydubai have slightly different size restrictions, so always check your bag dimensions before flying.
- Air Arabia offers one of the most generous cabin baggage allowances with 10 kg.
- Gulf Air has the lightest weight limit at 6 kg.
Travel Tips
✔ Weigh your hand carry before leaving for the airport.
✔ Measure your luggage, including wheels and handles.
✔ Keep power banks, laptops, medicines, and important documents in your cabin bag.
✔ Baggage policies may vary depending on your fare type, route, and aircraft, so always check your booking before departure.
Travel smart and pack within your airline’s cabin baggage allowance to enjoy a smooth and hassle-free journey.
Sources: Emirates, Qatar Airways, flydubai, and airline baggage guidance.