Southwest drops Dubai party theme

Southwest Airlines will replace its 'One Night in Dubai' holiday party theme after The Dallas Express asked questions about employee concerns.

Announcement wasn't fully vetted

The airline admitted the party announcement circulated before leadership had fully reviewed the idea. A new theme will be shared with Dallas employees soon.

“The party announcement you asked about was sent out before the idea had been fully vetted by the Leadership Team.”

Flight attendant raises concerns

A Southwest flight attendant reported that many colleagues were unhappy with the Dubai theme for what they considered a Christmas celebration.

Dubai's Muslim majority questioned

Dubai is part of the United Arab Emirates, where more than 75% of residents are Muslim. The flyer called it a 'Holiday Party,' not a religious event.

Thousands expected at December event

The December 5 party was planned for Southwest employees across Dallas Love Field, including pilots, flight attendants, and gate agents.

Employees voted on party themes

An August 18 email invited employees to vote on holiday party themes. The Dubai announcement was distributed September 15.

Southwest confirms theme change

After receiving nine questions from The Dallas Express, Southwest confirmed a new theme is coming but didn't address specific questions or name the replacement.

“We will be sharing a new party theme with the DAL Employees in the near future.”