Air India Express adds three new direct routes from Abu Dhabi, further enriching the airline’s growing presence at Zayed International Airport.
New routes expand Abu Dhabi‑India connectivity
The carrier has begun nonstop flights to Navi Mumbai, Indore and Lucknow, and will start serving Guwahati on Aug 7, Abu Dhabi Airports confirmed. Ahmed Juma Al Shamisi, CEO of Abu Dhabi Airports, said the addition of these routes reflects the airport’s push to broaden its destination network and highlighted the airport’s continued efforts to grow that network. He added that strengthening partnerships with regional airlines would give passengers more travel choices while supporting Abu Dhabi’s tourism and economic ambitions. These initiatives are part of a broader plan to enhance the airport’s international reach.
The addition of these new routes by Air India Express underlines our commitment to expanding Zayed International Airport's destination network and serving the growing demand between the UAE and India.
— Ahmed Juma Al Shamisi, CEO, Abu Dhabi Airports
Nipun Aggarwal, Chairman of Air India Express, highlighted the UAE as a key market and noted that Abu Dhabi continues to play a vital role in the airline’s growth. He said the airline’s expanding network and growing fleet will give travellers greater choice, convenient schedules and direct connections, reinforcing Air India Express’ position as India’s leading value airline. The airline’s focus on value‑oriented services aligns with the growing preference for affordable direct travel among the region’s sizable Indian diaspora.
The UAE is one of Air India Express' most important international markets, and Abu Dhabi continues to play a key role in our growth journey.
— Nipun Aggarwal, Chairman, Air India Express
Strengthening travel options and economic links
Direct flights already link Abu Dhabi with major Indian cities such as Mumbai, New Delhi and Kochi via Etihad Airways, IndiGo and Air India Express, providing daily connectivity. Across all airlines, hundreds of flights operate each week between India and the UAE, reflecting strong demand from tourists, business travellers and the sizable Indian expatriate community. Several new India‑UAE routes are being introduced during August 2026, further boosting connectivity and supporting Abu Dhabi’s tourism and economic ambitions. The expanded schedule underscores Abu Dhabi’s role as a gateway for India‑UAE exchange.
