IndiGo launches new flights from South India to UAE as part of international expansion

# Swati Ketkar
Representational image
Representational image

IndiGo, India's largest airline by market share, is significantly enhancing its international connectivity by launching new direct flights between South India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This expansion includes the introduction of services from Mumbai and Kannur to Fujairah, as well as from Visakhapatnam and Bhubaneswar to Abu Dhabi.

New routes to Fujairah

IndiGo commenced daily direct flights between Mumbai and Fujairah, and between Kannur and Fujairah. These additions mark Fujairah as IndiGo's 41st international destination and fifth destination in the UAE joining Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah. The new routes aim to cater to both business and leisure travelers, offering more options for those traveling between India and the UAE.

Commenting on the new route Vinay Malhotra, Head of Global Sales at IndiGo said: "We are pleased to commence daily direct operations between Mumbai as well as Kannur to Fujairah, UAE's hidden gem known for its natural beauty and growing economic significance. IndiGo already flies to Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah and now also to Fujairah in the UAE."

Enhanced connectivity to Abu Dhabi

In June 2025, IndiGo is set to launch new direct flights from Visakhapatnam and Bhubaneswar to Abu Dhabi. The Visakhapatnam–Abu Dhabi route will operate four times a week starting June 13, while the Bhubaneswar–Abu Dhabi service will run three times a week beginning June 12. These routes are part of the Building Management of Aviation Assets and Network (B-MAAN) initiative, aiming to boost international connectivity and stimulate tourism and trade in the respective regions.

Strategic expansion

With these additions, IndiGo now connects 20 Indian cities to the UAE with over 280 weekly flights. This expansion underscores the airline's commitment to enhancing global connectivity and providing affordable, on-time and seamless travel experiences for its customers.

The new routes also align with the airline's broader strategy to strengthen its presence in the Middle East, a region with a significant Indian diaspora and growing demand for air travel. By expanding its network to include more Tier-2 cities, IndiGo is facilitating greater accessibility and convenience for travelers across India.

IndiGo's recent international expansions reflect its proactive approach to meeting the evolving travel needs of its customers. By introducing new routes connecting South India to the UAE, the airline is not only enhancing its global footprint, but also contributing to the economic and cultural exchange between the two regions.