Indian traffic to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) also is taking an exponential growth pattern over the past two decades. There is a robust cultural bonding to the growing economic interdependence and a vibrant tourism industry making India UAE flights one of the busiest routes in the Asian context. Being a tourist in the Burj Khalifa or a working professional in Abu Dhabi, knowledge about the aviation industry will be invaluable.

United Arab Emirates and Indian official stamps on a passport page

Flights from India to UAE: An overview

The entire range of foreign and local airlines serve this air corridor, which carries testament to the strong diplomatic and commercial ties that exist between the two countries. The country has over 700 flights each week and to them passengers have an opportunity of direct flights as well as an array of possible on-ward flights.

Key routes

• Delhi – Dubai
• Mumbai – Abu Dhabi
• Hyderabad – Sharjah
• Chennai – Dubai
• Kochi – Abu Dhabi

An Indian traveler will tend to choose non-stop flights due to convenience and effectiveness in the process as well. Tourists, expatriates, as well as professionals, have access to airlines of all categories, both economy and business.

Major Indian cities offering direct flights to UAE

India has over 15 international airports offering non-stop flights to various cities in the UAE:

The Mangalore to Dubai and Calicut to Dubai or Sharjah routes are popular among the diaspora which have attracted significant reputation among the local population.

Top UAE airports connected to India

The UAE's infrastructure includes world-class airports that connect seamlessly to Indian metros.

1. Dubai International Airport (DXB)

Dubai International Airport (DXB) is recognized as the busiest international airport in the world, with an exorbitant passenger number and unmatched connectivity to the globe. Having a large number of direct flights to over 20 major cities of India makes DXB an especially convenient hub to Indian travelers. Additionally, the airport is the primary hub of Emirates Airlines which is one of the biggest airlines in the world hence a reaffirmation of the reputation of world-class service and global presence.

2. Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH)

Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) forms a key hub to Etihad Airways, which offers them wide international connectivity and high standards of service. The airport is particularly popular because of its Kerala and Tamil Nadu travelers who enjoy convenient timings, lower prices and smooth transfer process on their way to the Middle East, Europe and other destinations.

3. Sharjah International Airport (SHJ)

SHJ Sharjah International Airport is popular among economical passengers who can find reasonably priced flights and flights that are easy to access. It is the main operating hub of Air Arabia, a major low-cost airline in the region, which makes it a preferable gateway to economical travel to or out of the UAE, especially by the South Asian and Middle Eastern passengers.

Modern facilities, streamlined immigration and onward transport are available at each of these airports.

Morning atmosphere at Abu Dhabi international airport

Airlines operating between India and UAE

A diverse range of airlines ensures competitive pricing and flexibility for all types of travelers.

Did you know? Air India flight to Dubai from Delhi or Mumbai operates daily and includes meals, baggage and seat selection as standard.

An Air India Airbus A321neo departing out of Delhi Airport

Ticket prices: India to UAE

Prices vary depending on the city, season and airline, but on average:

• Economy Class (Round Trip): ₹18,000 to ₹30,000
• Business Class: ₹60,000 to ₹1,20,000
• Budget Airlines: As low as ₹13,000 during off-peak

Flight price India to Dubai typically spikes during festive seasons like Eid, Diwali and summer vacations (June–August). Booking 45–60 days in advance ensures better pricing.

Visa requirements and entry rules for Indian travelers to UAE

Indian citizens can enter the UAE with a valid eVisa, which is easy to apply online via the UAE immigration portal.

Visa types

• Tourist Visa (30/90 days)
• Transit Visa (48/96 hours)
• Business Visa
• Visa on Arrival or residence permit, with minimum validity of 6 months  (Only for Indians with valid US/UK/Schengen visa) 

• Passport with 6-month validity
• Passport-size photo
• Confirmed return ticket
• Hotel booking or invitation

India - UAE travelers are advised to check the latest updates.

Citizen woman stands tall with the UAE flag

Best time to book flights from India to UAE

Timing your booking is crucial to grab the best deals.

When should I book my flight?

• Ideal booking window: 6–8 weeks in advance
• Cheapest months: February, May, September
• Most expensive: June, December

Tips

• Use incognito mode for flight searches.
• Set alerts on comparison websites.
• Fly mid-week (Tuesday/Wednesday) for cheaper fares.

Travel tips for a smooth flight from India to UAE

Pre-departure tips

• Reach the airport 3 hours before departure.
• Confirm visa and immigration documents.
• Carry a universal charger and UAE currency.

Onboard experience

• Airlines like Emirates and Etihad offer personalized entertainment.
• Budget carriers offer meals/snacks as paid add-ons.
• Pack according to baggage limits: usually 25–30kg in check-in, 7kg hand luggage. Budget carriers like IndiGo and Air Arabia often have a 20kg check-in limit unless higher baggage is purchased.

Arrival & customs

• Be prepared for thermal scanning and document verification.
• Follow UAE customs laws: no pork, alcohol restrictions, prescription medication with script only.

Return flights: UAE to India – Booking, prices and Timing

UAE to India flights are equally frequent and reasonably priced. Here's what to expect:

Use flexible dates to find the cheapest flight ticket from UAE to India and avoid weekends or holidays.

FAQs on flights from India to UAE

1. What is the cheapest airline from India to UAE?

The most affordable fares are usually provided by IndiGo and Air Arabia. Expenses can be significantly reduced by early booking, as well as by opting against busy travel times.

2. Can I get a visa on arrival in UAE with an Indian passport?

Yes, Indian passport holders with a valid US, UK, Schengen visa or resident permit (valid for at least 6 months) are eligible for a 14-day visa on arrival in the UAE for a fee. Indian passport holders who do not hold valid US, UK, or Schengen visas or residence permits must apply for a UAE visa in advance.

3. How long is the flight from India to Dubai?

It takes 3.5 to 4.5 hours to fly depending on the airport of departure.

4. What is the baggage allowance for India–UAE flights?

Check-in baggage weighs between 25 to 30kg, whereas hand baggage is normally between 7 to 8 kg, it is advisable to first confirm with your carrier concerning the above limits before travelling.

5. Are there direct flights from small Indian cities to the UAE?

Yes, there is direct service offered at Mangalore, Calicut and Jaipur, which is mainly through Air India Express and Air Arabia.

6. Can I change my return ticket from UAE to India?

Yes, there will be cancellation charges to make a change of route. Read the terms of fare prior to booking. It should also be noted that cheap tickets from low-cost airlines (like IndiGo or Air Arabia) are usually non-refundable/non-changeable or involve very high fees.

Jumeirah Beach in UAE

Conclusion: Flying from India to the UAE

The current bilateral relationship between India and the UAE is strong with daily frequencies, competitive fare structure, liberal visa policy and state of the art airports at both the ends. Regardless of whether one gets to take the journey for business or personal reasons, it is advisable to start off with a conservative booking.

Conclusively, air travel between UAE and India is convenient, low cost and flexible. Using reliable planning instruments and being aware of the applicable policies, a person can travel to the UAE without facing issues.