New non-stop services expected to strengthen Northeast India’s links with the Gulf and benefit travellers, businesses and the Indian diaspora
Air India Express will begin operating direct non-stop flights from Guwahati to Dubai and Abu Dhabi from early August, marking a major milestone in international air connectivity for Northeast India.
The Assam government announced that the airline will launch the Guwahati-Dubai service on August 4, followed by flights to Abu Dhabi on August 7. The new routes will make Air India Express the first carrier to offer direct scheduled flights from the region to West Asia, eliminating the need for passengers to transit through other Indian metropolitan airports.
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Officials said the services are expected to significantly improve travel convenience for thousands of people from Assam and neighbouring northeastern states, particularly business travellers, students, tourists and members of the Indian diaspora living in the United Arab Emirates. The flights are also expected to boost trade, tourism and cultural exchanges between Northeast India and the Gulf region
The launch forms part of broader efforts to expand Guwahati’s role as an international aviation gateway. Air India Express has steadily increased its operations from the city, and the addition of the UAE routes represents its first international services from Guwahati.
The Gulf remains one of the most important overseas destinations for people from Northeast India, with a large number travelling for employment, education and business. Direct air links are expected to reduce travel time and improve connectivity for passengers visiting family or returning home.
Industry observers believe the new flights will further strengthen economic ties between India and the UAE while opening new opportunities for tourism and investment. They also expect the services to enhance Guwahati’s position as a regional aviation hub and encourage greater international connectivity from Northeast India in the coming years.
