Middle Eastern start-up carrier RAK Airways has ordered four Boeing 737-800s and placed purchase rights on another two.

On February 25, the Ras Al Khaimah-based carrier's chairman, Sheikh Oman bin Saqr Al-Qasimi, signed an agreement with the airframer at an event in the United Arab Emirates.

It follows the airline's indication last month that it was planning to take four Boeing 737s or Airbus A320s. RAK Airways, which has been operating a single Boeing 757-200, values the new agreement at DHS1.65 billion (US$449 million).

"We believe in providing premium service to our customers, in line with our strategy to enhance customer services by adding new destinations, increased frequency and new-generation aircraft," says Al-Qasimi.

Delivery dates for the aircraft have not been disclosed. RAK Airways struggled to become operational but has started flying to destinations including Dhaka and Colombo.

RAK Airways deputy chairman Sheikh Salem bin Sultan Al-Qasimi says the carrier hopes to begin operating to India, Nepal and the Bangladeshi city of Chittagong. Over the next two years it intends to serve 20 destinations.