PIA resumes direct flights from Dubai to Pakistan's tourist spot Skardu

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has resumed direct flights from Dubai to Skardu, the country's snow-clad mountains and tourist destination, with the first flight taking off on Friday (May 30), marking a significant development in promoting tourism to northern regions.

PIA had started its international flight operations at Skardu Airport where the first flight, carrying 80 passengers, landed from Dubai on Aug.14, 2023.

The direct flight service reduces travel time from over 20 hours by road via the Karakoram Highway to under three hours by air. The Pakistan's northern regions attract visitors year-round.

To celebrate the occasion, a cake-cutting ceremony was held at the PIA office in Dubai, attended by Hussain Muhammad, Consul General.

The event also welcomed members of a foreign tourist group travelling on the inaugural flight, underscoring the growing interest in Pakistan’s scenic northern areas.

Hussain Muhammad (third from right) with PIA officials during the ceremony in Dubai on Thursday.

PIA Regional Manager Sarmad Aizaz and his team hosted the event, celebrating this significant step toward boosting tourism and strengthening people-to-people ties between the UAE and Pakistan.

The move is part of PIA’s broader expansion strategy to boost tourism in the country.

Speaking on the occasion, Hussain said, “This flight not only facilitates Pakistani expatriates but also opens the doors for more than 200 nationalities living in the UAE to discover the untouched beauty of Skardu and Gilgit-Baltistan.”

Earlier, Pakistan's Ambassador to the UAE, Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, had invited residents to explore the unmatched natural beauty of the Northern Areas while availing the opportunity of taking direct flight to one of the world’s most scenic destinations.

Hussain Muhammad with PIA officials during the ceremony.

Skardu is home to beautiful lakes, valleys, and amazing landscapes, added Ambassador Tirmizi.

Located at 2,500 metres (8,200 feet) above the sea level, the city of wonders is home to lakes, waterfalls and springs.

Deosai National Park, Upper Kachura Lake, Manthokha Waterfalls and Kharpocho Fort and Shangrila are the key areas of attractions for the tourists.

Due to snow-covered and lofty mountains the temperatures normally go down below -20°C during the winter in Skardu, which is also a perfect destination for skiing lovers.