Pokhara joining global air network with direct Pokhara–Dubai flights

KATHMANDU: Flydubai is set to commence direct flights on the Pokhara–Dubai–Pokhara route from Sept 23, marking a major milestone in connecting Nepal’s tourism capital to one of the world’s busiest aviation hubs. The new service is expected to integrate Pokhara into a wider international air network via Dubai, significantly improving global access for travelers from western Nepal and the Gandaki Province.

Despite being operational for three years, the Pokhara International Airport has struggled to maintain regular international services. In March 2025, Himalaya Airlines briefly operated a Pokhara–Lhasa commercial flight, but the service was later suspended due to low passenger demand. The upcoming Flydubai operation will become only the second scheduled international commercial service from the airport, which has previously handled limited charter flights to destinations in China, India, and Bhutan.

Pokhara International Airport General Manager Jagannath Niraula confirmed that the flight schedule for the Dubai–Pokhara–Dubai route has already been approved, and ticket bookings have been opened by Flydubai. He described the development as a significant achievement for expanding Pokhara’s international aviation reach.

“This is an important milestone in expanding Pokhara’s international air connectivity. It will directly benefit the entire Gandaki Province and the country,” Niraula said. “Passengers traveling from Pokhara via Dubai to Europe, America, and other destinations will experience greater convenience, shorter travel times, and reduced costs.”

According to him, the new service will allow foreign tourists to travel directly to Pokhara, enhancing tourism prospects for the region and nearby destinations. It is also expected to benefit Nepali citizens traveling to Gulf countries for employment, as well as students and general travelers.

Pokhara Metropolitan City Mayor Dhanraj Acharya said the direct connection to Dubai—one of the world’s most important aviation transit hubs—will significantly strengthen Pokhara’s global accessibility. He added that under a strategic codeshare partnership between Flydubai and Emirates Airlines, passengers will be able to travel seamlessly from Pokhara to multiple global destinations.

Through the partnership, travelers flying from Pokhara can connect to cities in Australia, Europe, and the United States using a single ticket, with baggage transferred automatically to their final destination, eliminating transit hassles.

General Manager Niraula further explained that Emirates Airlines operates through Terminal 3 of Dubai International Airport, connecting over 143 destinations across 76 countries spanning six continents. He emphasized that such codeshare arrangements make international travel smoother and more efficient for passengers.

The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal permitted Flydubai to operate the route on Jestha 25. Prior to approval, a Flydubai technical team conducted a high-level inspection of Pokhara International Airport, focusing on safety, security, and operational readiness.

Officials also noted that other international carriers, including Air Arabia, have shown interest in operating flights from Pokhara. Authorities believe that sustained international operations will require continued cooperation from the private sector and all stakeholders to ensure long-term viability.

Pokhara International Airport, the third international gateway of Nepal, was inaugurated on January 1, 2023. Built at a cost of approximately Rs 22 billion in loans, the airport currently operates only domestic flights, including routes to Kathmandu, Bharatpur, and Bhairahawa.

The airport was envisioned as a major international gateway to ease air traffic from Kathmandu and boost tourism and economic activity in western Nepal. However, regular international operations have yet to be fully realized, despite long-standing expectations from tourism entrepreneurs.

Industry leaders believe the Pokhara–Dubai direct connection will open new economic opportunities. Nareš Kandel, President of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (Gandaki), said the route would significantly benefit the region’s economy.

“A large number of people from Gandaki Province travel to Middle Eastern countries, Europe, and the United States for employment and study,” he said. “This direct flight will make travel easier, more affordable, and more convenient for them, while also allowing tourists to arrive directly in Pokhara.”

With the launch of direct flights to Dubai, Pokhara is expected to gain enhanced access to over 300 global cities through one of the world’s largest aviation hubs, potentially transforming the region’s tourism landscape and economic outlook.