Abu Dhabi is strengthening its aviation ties with India as Zayed International Airport prepares to offer direct flights to 22 Indian cities from August, up from the current 17 destinations. The expansion comes in response to the growing demand from Indian travellers, making India one of Abu Dhabi’s fastest-growing tourism and aviation markets.
The enhanced connectivity is being driven by the launch of new routes by Air India Express, which recently introduced additional services connecting Abu Dhabi with key Indian cities. The move is expected to improve travel convenience for both business and leisure passengers while supporting stronger trade, tourism, and cultural exchanges between India and the UAE.
According to airport officials, passenger traffic between India and Abu Dhabi has been growing by more than 20% annually, with demand continuing to exceed the available bilateral traffic rights. The expansion aims to meet this rising demand while further establishing Abu Dhabi as a leading international transit hub for Indian travellers.
The additional routes are expected to benefit travellers from Tier-II and Tier-III Indian cities by providing more direct access to the UAE without relying on connecting flights. Improved connectivity will also support sectors such as tourism, hospitality, education, healthcare, and business travel.
India remains one of Abu Dhabi’s most significant source markets, with airlines continuing to expand operations to cater to increasing passenger volumes. The latest route additions reinforce the growing partnership between Indian carriers and Abu Dhabi’s aviation sector, while enhancing the emirate’s position as a gateway to the Middle East and beyond.
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