Ticket booking opens for direct Pokhara–Dubai flights

KATHMANDU: A historic milestone for Nepal’s aviation and tourism sector is set to begin as Pokhara International Airport prepares to launch its first-ever regular international commercial flight operations.

Starting from Ashoj 7 (23 Sept), UAE-based carrier FlyDubai will operate daily flights between Pokhara and Dubai, marking the first scheduled international air service from the airport since its inauguration three years ago.

The airline has already opened ticket bookings, confirming a long-awaited breakthrough for regular international connectivity from Pokhara.

Tourism entrepreneurs across the Gandaki Province have welcomed the development, calling it a transformative step for the region’s tourism industry.

Stakeholders believe the new route will significantly boost inbound tourism, investment prospects, and international visibility of Pokhara, a city known for its natural beauty, adventure tourism, and cultural heritage.

Pokhara Metropolitan City Mayor Dhanraj Acharya described the development as a major achievement in expanding Pokhara’s global identity, noting that the new service goes beyond aviation connectivity and will help decentralize Nepal’s air traffic, which is heavily concentrated in Kathmandu.

Tourism leaders, including representatives from the Hotel Association Nepal, highlighted that discussions with the UAE ambassador on direct connectivity had been constructive, paving the way for enhanced tourism exchange and economic cooperation.

The Pokhara Tourism Council and women tourism entrepreneurs have also expressed optimism, stating that the direct link with Dubai will open access to wider international markets and strengthen the city’s tourism ecosystem.

Officials expect the daily flights to benefit students pursuing higher education abroad, migrant workers traveling to Gulf countries, and general travelers from western Nepal and surrounding regions.