New Delhi: Dr. Abdulnasser Alshaali, UAE Ambassador to India, emphasised the urgent need for increased flights between the UAE and India to bolster people-to-people and business connections. Speaking during the inaugural UAE-India Founders’ Retreat in Dubai, Dr. Alshaali identified aviation as a key challenge in strengthening the flourishing partnership between the two nations.
Highlighting the success of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) and the projection of bilateral non-oil trade reaching $100 billion by 2030, Dr. Alshaali pointed out that the current aviation infrastructure is insufficient to meet the rising demand.
“Prices have doubled over the past decade, and there is no supply left in the market. Demand is soaring from various cities across India,” he stated.
Dr. Alshaali stressed the importance of connectivity for businesses, investors, and students travelling between the two countries.
“For everything we are working on to succeed, seamless travel is essential,” he remarked, urging for increased flight capacity to avoid rising costs and logistical challenges.
The ambassador also advocated for connecting Tier 2 Indian cities to UAE destinations, which could drive tourism, create jobs, and forge deeper ties. Discussions are underway to realise this vision, with various Indian cities pitching proposals to facilitate such connections. Dr. Alshaali said his tenure in India has also been a personal journey of discovery, as he visited 14 states, experiencing the nation’s rich diversity. Reflecting on his experiences, he expressed optimism about the future of UAE-India relations, envisioning a dynamic partnership strengthened by enhanced aviation links.
