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A “party plane” with DJs and drinks will fly from Dubai to an electronic festival in Egypt this summer—a first-of-its-kind flight for the Middle East that underlines the contrast with conservative stereotypes of the Muslim region.

Why It Matters

The initiative reflects a growing trend in the Middle East, where entertainment and tourism are being elevated into high-end lifestyle experiences.

It’s part of a wider regional push to diversify energy-dependent economies, particularly in the Gulf, by investing in cultural soft power and premium leisure offerings aimed at both Middle Eastern elites and global travelers. It also highlights the cultural diversity within a region where more liberal attitudes are as evident as those of believers in observing more austere ways of life.

What To Know

The exclusive one-way charter flight, called AIRBOX Dubai, will feature live DJs throughout the journey along with drinks—including alcoholic drinks—as a pre-party for Sandbox Festival ticket holders. According to Sandbox’s official website, flight packages start at $579.

Behind AIRBOX Dubai is Moe’s Records, a UAE-bred global dance music label launched in 2024, partnering with Sandbox Festival—an annual electronic music event in the luxury beach resort of Gouna, Egypt. The flight is operated by Escape Code, a luxury travel concierge service based in Egypt. The aircraft type and seating capacity have not yet been disclosed.

Produced by Cairo-based events company Nacelle, the Red Sea beachfront festival draws a global crowd for three days of music and art. “Someone from the festival must have discovered Soul Plane,” one Instagram user commented, referring to the 2004 comedy starring Kevin Hart that parodies wild, over-the-top airline parties. Other users demanded a similar experience to kick off from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Similar “party flight” experiences have taken off in Europe, most notably with Tomorrowland’s “Amare” plane. Operated in partnership with Brussels Airlines, the aircraft featured custom lighting and themed music. DJs have also played on Ibiza-bound flights from Britain.

What People Are Saying

Tito El Kachab, Founder of Sandbox by Nacelle: “We’ve been dreaming about doing a party charter flight from somewhere for a few years now and make a real experience out of it.”

Muhammad Abdullah Malik on Instagram: “Anyone thoughts what If plane crashes? Than what about One Way ticket straight to the Hell? Huh? Be a sigma men/women and ignore this worldly temporary stuff and make your Lord Happy and stay blessed here and hereafter.”

Hoda Heidi on Instagram: “Captain must stay sober.”

What Happens Next

The flight is scheduled to depart on the morning of May 7, 2025, from Al Maktoum International Airport in Dubai, landing at Hurghada International Airport.