How I Redeemed Credit Card Points for a Business Class Flight to Dubai

Business class from Mumbai to Dubai retails at around ₹65,000. I paid ₹8,500 in taxes. Here’s exactly how I did it — and how you can replicate it.

Step 1 — Accumulate the Right Points Currency

Not all reward points are equal. Hotel points are generally poor value for flights. The most valuable currencies for Indian travellers are: HDFC SmartPoints (redeemable for Airmiles), Axis EDGE Miles, and American Express Membership Rewards.

For a business class flight to Dubai or Europe, you’ll typically need 35,000–80,000 miles depending on the program and availability.

Step 2 — Transfer to the Right Airline Program

Axis EDGE Miles transfer to Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer, Air India Flying Returns, and several other partners at 5:4 ratio. Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer is the most powerful — they have access to Star Alliance partners including Lufthansa, ANA, and Air India.

Step 3 — Find the Award Space Before You Transfer

This is the step most people miss. Award space is not guaranteed. Before transferring your points, search for availability on the airline’s website. Only transfer once you’ve confirmed space exists on your travel dates.

Points transfers are almost always one-way and non-reversible. Never transfer without confirmed availability.

Step 4 — Book and Pay the Taxes

Once you’ve transferred, you’ll pay only the taxes and carrier-imposed surcharges in cash. For most routes from India, this is ₹6,000–₹15,000. The entire business class experience costs you a fraction of the cash price.

Which Cards Accumulate Miles Fastest in India?

• Axis Magnus — 35 EDGE Miles per ₹200 on travel bookings
• Axis Atlas — 5 EDGE Miles per ₹200 on travel; 2 on all spends
• HDFC Infinia — via SmartBuy and co-brand transfer
• Amex Platinum — strong MR to airline partner transfer options