GURUGRAM- Air India Express (IX), India’s first international value carrier, has expanded its growing network by adding Nagpur (NAG) to its list of destinations. The airline continues its rapid domestic and international growth, offering greater connectivity for travelers across India and the Gulf region.
Starting December 2025, Air India Express will introduce new routes connecting Delhi (DEL) and Pune (PNQ) to Abu Dhabi (AUH), and twice daily flights between Nagpur and Bengaluru (BLR), strengthening its presence in central and southern India.
Air India Express Abu Dhabi Routes
Air India Express continues its strategic network expansion with the addition of Nagpur, enhancing accessibility in Maharashtra and boosting connectivity between key Indian cities.
Beginning December 1, 2025, the airline will operate twice daily flights between Nagpur and Bengaluru, with convenient departure and arrival timings designed for both business and leisure travelers.
In addition, from December 2, 2025, Air India Express will launch new routes to Abu Dhabi, featuring 4 weekly flights between Delhi and Abu Dhabi, and 3 weekly flights between Pune and Abu Dhabi.
These new links will enhance travel between India and the UAE, catering to both growing demand and diaspora movement in the Gulf region.
With Nagpur now part of the network, Air India Express connects 60 destinations, marking a significant milestone in its expansion journey.
Maharashtra remains a key focus, with over 130 weekly flights from Mumbai, 90 from Pune, and new operations from Navi Mumbai, covering major cities including Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, and Kolkata.
Strengthening Hubs and Connectivity
Bengaluru has emerged as a crucial hub for Air India Express, with the airline operating over 530 weekly flights from the city.
The newly added Nagpur–Bengaluru route complements recently launched services to Ahmedabad, Chandigarh, Dehradun, Jodhpur, and Udaipur.
Additionally, Bengaluru now connects directly to Bangkok, Jeddah, Kuwait, and Riyadh, extending the airline’s reach beyond India.
From Delhi, Air India Express operates more than 400 weekly flights, linking 25 domestic destinations and several international ones, including Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Muscat.
This expanded network strengthens Air India Express’ position as a key player in India’s aviation market, offering passengers broader choices and more direct connections.
Enhanced Passenger Experience
Air India Express has recently introduced a refreshed cabin design for its Boeing 737-8 aircraft, offering improved comfort with upgraded seats, wider armrests, enhanced legroom, and in-seat USB charging.
The new interiors also feature ovens for hot ‘Gourmair’ meals and advanced Boeing Sky Interior lighting, creating a warm and modern in-flight atmosphere.
The airline’s new campaign, “Xplore More, Xpress More,” encourages travelers to embrace new experiences while celebrating India’s diversity through its ‘Tales of India’ initiative, which showcases over 50 regional art forms from 25 states on aircraft tail designs.
Abu Dhabi Travel Guide
Less crowded than Dubai (DXB), Abu Dhabi (AUH) blends culture, adventure, and nature into a destination that exceeds expectations. From pristine beaches and sprawling mangroves to world-class art museums and global sporting events, the UAE’s capital offers experiences that balance luxury and authenticity.
With a vibrant dining scene, welcoming communities, and deep-rooted heritage, the city invites travelers to explore beyond the skyline. Whether visiting for history, food, or outdoor pursuits, Abu Dhabi delivers an experience that’s both diverse and deeply local.
Discovering the Essence of Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi’s charm lies in its ability to surprise. The city’s many islands and districts each tell a different story—from the opulent Saadiyat Island to the energetic Yas Island and the culturally rich Downtown area. The emirate caters to travelers year-round, though each season brings a unique rhythm.
Spring (March–May) is ideal for outdoor exploration. Visitors can kayak through the tranquil waters of Jubail Mangrove Park or relax on the beaches of Saadiyat Island, Hudayriyat Island, and the Abu Dhabi Corniche. The Liwa Desert, a cinematic landscape featured in Dune and Dune: Part Two, offers hiking experiences that echo the journeys of Abu Dhabi’s original Bedouins.
Summer (June–August) marks the low season, with temperatures peaking around 45°C (113°F). It’s the best time for hotel deals and indoor attractions such as the National Aquarium, CLYMB Abu Dhabi, and Louvre Abu Dhabi. Theme parks on Yas Island and events at Etihad Arena ensure entertainment remains abundant.
Autumn (September–November) brings cooler air and active pursuits. Cyclists enjoy Hudayriyat Island’s 10-kilometer track, while surfers take on the waves at Surf Abu Dhabi—the world’s largest artificial surf pool. A day trip to Al Ain reveals the emirate’s lush side with the Al Ain Oasis and scenic Jebel Hafeet mountain roads.
Winter (December–February) showcases Abu Dhabi at its festive best. The Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and ADNOC Marathon headline the sporting calendar, while the Al Hosn Festival and Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque highlight Emirati culture. Family-friendly celebrations like the MOTN Festival and open-air concerts at Saadiyat Nights complete the season’s appeal.
Key Islands and Districts to Explore
Saadiyat Island is the city’s cultural and ecological jewel. Its white-sand beaches, clear waters, and protected Hawksbill turtle habitats reflect Abu Dhabi’s commitment to conservation. The island’s cultural district hosts Louvre Abu Dhabi, teamLab Phenomena, and the soon-to-open Guggenheim Abu Dhabi and Zayed National Museum.
Yas Island is synonymous with fun and adrenaline. It features Yas Marina Circuit (home of the Formula 1 Grand Prix), Yas Links golf course, and major attractions like Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld, Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, and SeaWorld Yas Island. Disneyland Abu Dhabi, expected between 2030 and 2032, will further cement its reputation as the UAE’s entertainment hub.
Downtown Abu Dhabi captures the emirate’s roots. Traditional markets like Mina Zayed Fish Market stand alongside modern landmarks such as Qasr Al Hosn and Qasr Al Watan Palace. Visitors can stroll the Corniche, explore public art, and dine at luxury spots in The Galleria Al Maryah Island.
Culinary Diversity in the Capital
Abu Dhabi’s culinary scene reflects its multicultural identity. With residents from over 200 nationalities, dining ranges from budget-friendly local cafés to fine dining institutions.
Emirati cuisine offers flavors steeped in history—machboos (spiced rice with meat or fish), lugaymat (sweet fried dough), and aromatic qahwa (Arabic coffee). Michelin-starred Erth Restaurant modernizes traditional recipes, while Ryba at Mina Zayed serves seafood infused with Emirati spices.
Shawarma remains the city’s street food icon. Zahrat Lebanon, a long-standing favorite, serves some of the most sought-after versions, paired with fresh mezze and Arabic grills that capture the essence of Middle Eastern dining.
Transportation and Accessibility
By Air: Zayed International Airport (AUH) offers extensive global connections, while Dubai International Airport (DXB) is a two-hour drive away.
Travelling on Bus: Affordable and frequent routes connect the city, including A1 and A2 services to Downtown.
By Taxi and Water Taxi: Taxis are readily available, with Careem as the main app. Water taxis connect areas like Yas Bay, Al Raha, and Saadiyat Island.
By Bike: Dedicated paths on the Corniche and Hudayriyat Island make cycling easy and scenic.
By Rail: The upcoming Etihad Rail (expected in 2026) will link Abu Dhabi with Dubai and the northern emirates.
Responsible and Sustainable Travel
Abu Dhabi prioritizes sustainability across tourism and infrastructure. Visitors can explore Masdar City, a low-carbon urban community powered by renewable energy, or visit local organic farms like Mazaraa Farm and Emirates Bio Farm.
In the desert, eco-friendly camping and stargazing are preferred over dune bashing to minimize environmental damage. Along the coast, travelers are urged to protect marine life by keeping safe distances and reporting animal sightings to the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) hotline.
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