Flights Between UAE and Pakistan Resume After Ceasefire

Air travel between the UAE and Pakistan is finally back in motion as major carriers including Etihad, Emirates, and Air Arabia restart operations following the reopening of Pakistani airspace.

The move comes after India and Pakistan agreed to a full ceasefire, cooling tensions after a spike in hostilities that began earlier this month.

Pakistan’s airspace was closed to Indian-owned and operated airlines from April 24, leading to widespread disruption in regional travel. But that changed on Saturday after both nations struck a truce following the launch of India’s Operation Sindoor on May 7. The ceasefire officially kicked off at 5pm IST (3:30pm UAE time), as confirmed by India’s foreign ministry.

Welcoming the truce, UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan expressed hope “that this step will contribute to enhancing security and stability in the South Asian region.”

Etihad flights take off (mostly)

Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways was quick to adjust its schedule. Flights to Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi resumed daytime operations on Sunday, May 11. These include:

• EY300/301: Abu Dhabi – Islamabad
• EY294/295: Abu Dhabi – Karachi
• EY288/289: Abu Dhabi – Lahore

However, some evening services were still grounded:

• EY296/297: Abu Dhabi – Karachi
• EY302/303: Abu Dhabi – Islamabad

A spokesperson for Etihad noted: “Guests transiting through Abu Dhabi to connect to cancelled flights will not be accepted for travel from their point of origin unless they have made separate onward travel arrangements from Abu Dhabi.”

Etihad also stated they’re “continuing to monitor developments closely,” warning of potential changes as the situation remains fluid.

Emirates joins the runway revival

Dubai’s flagship carrier Emirates wasted no time either. Regular flights resumed starting May 11, covering key Pakistani cities:

• EK600/601: Dubai – Karachi
• EK618/619: Dubai – Sialkot
• EK622/623: Dubai – Lahore
• EK612/613: Dubai – Islamabad (from May 12)
• EK636/637: Dubai – Peshawar (from May 13)

The airline confirmed that customers with connecting flights to Pakistan can now proceed as booked. Those needing alternatives are advised to reach out to Emirates or their travel agents directly.

Air Arabia clears for takeoff

Sharjah-based low-cost carrier Air Arabia also reactivated its Pakistan routes on May 11. While flights have resumed, the airline reminded passengers that operations remain subject to updates, depending on developments on the ground.

Air Arabia said passengers would be contacted directly for any changes. Those who booked through third-party agents should follow up with their agencies for assistance.

A region exhales—cautiously

The Pakistan Airports Authority announced that the country’s airspace is “fully reopened for all types of flights,” a welcome relief for travelers and airlines alike. The news broke shortly after U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed the ceasefire.

Although the skies are open, caution remains the name of the game. UAE airlines continue to coordinate with local and international authorities to ensure the safety and stability of operations.

For now, though, it’s good news for travelers—bookings are back, boarding passes are printing, and flights are finally taking off.