In a major boost for regional air connectivity and bilateral relations, Air Arabia Abu Dhabi—the UAE capital’s first low-cost carrier—has officially launched direct flights to Sialkot, Pakistan. The new route not only strengthens the airline’s presence in South Asia but also offers significant economic, social, and logistical benefits for both nations.
With three weekly non-stop flights—on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays—the route is now operational from Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi to Sialkot International Airport, a city known as Pakistan’s industrial and export powerhouse.
Route Details & Schedule: Convenience in Every Departure
- Flight 3L 311: Departs Abu Dhabi at 1:35 AM, arrives in Sialkot at 6:00 AM
- Flight 3L 312: Departs Sialkot at 6:50 AM, arrives in Abu Dhabi at 9:20 AM
Flights are operated by Airbus A320 aircraft, offering comfort, efficiency, and affordability. This schedule is ideal for both business travelers and families—providing a seamless overnight journey with a morning arrival that aligns perfectly with onward travel plans or daily routines.
PCAA Approval: A Regulatory Green Light
This route was made possible with the official approval of the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA), ensuring that Air Arabia Abu Dhabi meets all regulatory and safety standards. The PCAA’s endorsement reaffirms its commitment to safe, secure, and internationally-compliant air operations.
Why Sialkot Matters: Pakistan’s Export Engine
Sialkot is no ordinary city—it is the first privately-operated international airport in Pakistan and sits at the heart of the country’s manufacturing sector. Known globally for producing:
- Sporting goods (used in FIFA World Cups and Olympics)
- Surgical instruments
- Leather products
- Apparel and textiles
Sialkot contributes significantly to Pakistan’s $30+ billion annual exports. The city’s connectivity with the UAE—a hub of global trade and logistics—offers immense potential to accelerate trade, shorten supply chains, and enhance export competitiveness.
The airport handles nearly 800,000 passengers annually and features a 3,600-meter runway capable of accommodating wide-body aircraft, making it a prime destination for commercial and cargo flights alike.
Benefits for Travelers: Faster, Easier, and More Affordable
The introduction of non-stop flights between Sialkot and Abu Dhabi provides a game-changing advantage for:
- Migrant workers commuting between homes and jobs in the Gulf
- Families seeking affordable and time-efficient travel
- Tourists and students benefiting from direct international links
- Entrepreneurs and exporters with fast access to markets and meetings
Eliminating layovers cuts down travel fatigue and uncertainty, especially for elderly passengers and those with children. Business travelers now have the ability to arrive early in Sialkot and immediately engage in meetings, factory visits, or trade negotiations—all in the same day.
Strengthening UAE–Pakistan Relations
According to Adel Al Ali, Group CEO of Air Arabia:
“The launch of direct flights to Sialkot reflects our ongoing commitment to expanding Air Arabia Abu Dhabi’s network. This new route enhances our presence in Pakistan and provides customers with greater connectivity, convenience, and affordability.”
More Than Just a Route—It’s a Lifeline
Imagine a young graduate from Sialkot beginning a new career in Abu Dhabi, or a grandmother flying in to meet her newborn grandchild—both without the stress of long layovers or multiple connections. The launch of this route simplifies lives and strengthens emotional and economic ties between communities.
It also opens the door for tourism, educational exchange, and small business opportunities, positioning Sialkot not just as an export hub but a key participant in Pakistan’s global engagement.
- Flights can fill up quickly, especially around holidays—early booking is advised
- Departures from Zayed International Airport offer seamless connections to other global destinations
- Tickets are available via Air Arabia’s website, call centers, and authorized travel agencies
More Than a Flight—A Connection Between Futures
The launch of Air Arabia Abu Dhabi’s direct service to Sialkot is a landmark development in South Asian aviation. It empowers travelers, energizes trade, and connects two vibrant economies with shared histories and future aspirations. As more such routes open, the UAE-Pakistan corridor becomes not just a bridge for commerce, but a runway for opportunity.
Air Arabia plans to increase operational capacity by 40% in 2025
Air Arabia Abu Dhabi, the capital’s first low-cost carrier, has expanded its fleet with the addition of two Airbus A320 aircraft, bringing its total fleet size to 12 aircraft. This expansion is part of the airline’s ongoing growth strategy.
The carrier also announced plans to add two more Airbus A320 aircraft before the end of the year. This planned fleet increase will boost total capacity by 40% in 2025, further reinforcing Air Arabia Abu Dhabi’s commitment to the growth of Abu Dhabi’s aviation sector and the emirate’s broader economic development.
Adel Al Ali, Group Chief Executive Officer, Air Arabia, said: “The addition of new aircraft and our strategic fleet expansion reflect our ongoing commitment to enhancing operational efficiency and expanding our network reach. This growth supports the rising demand for air travel to and from Abu Dhabi.” He added: “The planned capacity increase in 2025 will further contribute to the capital’s broader economic and tourism vision while continuing to offer value-driven air travel to our customers.”
Air Arabia Abu Dhabi’s recent network expansions include new routes to Yerevan, Almaty, and Sialkot, further broadening its reach. The airline now connects Abu Dhabi with non-stop service to over 30 destinations across the Middle East, Africa, Central Asia, the Indian Subcontinent, and Eastern Europe, offering seamless travel options for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.
Since its launch in 2020, Air Arabia Abu Dhabi has emerged as a key enabler of air connectivity from the UAE capital, providing its customers with affordable and reliable air travel.