Ahmedabad to the UAE: flights, visas and hotels

The United Arab Emirates has one of the largest Gujarati communities outside India, and Ahmedabad has nonstop flights to Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah on several airlines. Schedules change often, so check live options on IMPT before you plan.

Visas

Indian passport holders usually need a UAE visa arranged in advance, though some travellers with valid US, UK or EU visas or residence permits may qualify for a visa on arrival. Rules change — always confirm with the official UAE government portal or your airline before flying.

Where to go

• Dubai — skyline, malls, desert safaris and the old creek. See our Dubai guide.
• Abu Dhabi — the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Louvre Abu Dhabi and calmer beaches.
• Sharjah — museums, heritage areas and often cheaper hotels.

When to go

November to March is the pleasant season. June to September is extremely hot, but hotel prices drop sharply.

Airlines and airports

Several Indian and Gulf carriers connect AMD with the UAE, typically including nonstop services to Dubai International (DXB), Abu Dhabi (AUH) and Sharjah (SHJ). Low-cost carriers often use Sharjah, which is about 30 minutes from central Dubai by road outside rush hour. Full-service airlines usually include checked baggage and meals; low-cost tickets may not, so compare the total price.

• Dubai DXB — the biggest hub, close to Deira and Downtown.
• Abu Dhabi AUH — Etihad’s home, about 30 minutes from the city.
• Sharjah SHJ — popular with budget airlines; good for Sharjah and north Dubai.
• Al Maktoum DWC — Dubai’s second airport, south of the city.

Before you fly

• Passport valid for at least six months.
• Confirmed visa or eligibility for visa on arrival.
• Return ticket and hotel booking — sometimes checked at boarding.
• Travel insurance covering medical costs.
• Check customs rules for food, medicines and currency.

Money and costs

The UAE dirham is pegged to the US dollar. Cards are accepted almost everywhere, and many Indian banks offer forex cards with lower fees. Hotels in Dubai and Abu Dhabi charge a small per-night tourism fee on top of the room rate. Budget for taxis, which are metered and reasonably priced, and for attraction tickets, which can be expensive.

Food for Gujarati travellers

Bur Dubai, Karama and Deira have dozens of Gujarati, Rajasthani and South Indian vegetarian restaurants, many run by families from Gujarat. Abu Dhabi’s Hamdan Street and Mussafah areas are similar. Supermarkets stock Indian brands, so it is easy to find familiar snacks.

Culture and etiquette

• Dress modestly in malls, souks and government areas; swimwear is fine at beaches and pools.
• Public displays of affection are frowned upon.
• During Ramadan, avoid eating or drinking in public during daylight hours.
• Photography of people, government buildings and airports may be restricted.

Hotels in the UAE on IMPT

Use the button below to search live availability for your dates.

Navigating Ahmedabad's Transport

From the airport, taxis and app-based cabs are the most convenient way to reach your accommodation. The Ahmedabad Metro has two lines: a Blue Line running east-west and a Red Line north-south, with extensions towards Gandhinagar opened in phases. Always check the current network map as routes expand. BRTS buses (Janmarg) and AMTS city buses cover most areas, though they can be crowded during peak hours. Autos are widely available; agree on a fare before starting the journey.

For a traveller from the UAE, renting a car with a driver is a comfortable option for day trips to Modhera or Patan. The railway station at Kalupur connects Ahmedabad to major Indian cities. Sabarmati and Maninagar stations are also useful for local trains. Walking is the best way to explore the walled city's pols, but be prepared for narrow lanes and traffic. The Sabarmati Riverfront promenades offer a pleasant stroll, especially in the cooler months.

Festivals and Seasonal Highlights

Uttarayan, the kite festival on 14 January, is Ahmedabad's most spectacular event. The sky fills with kites from rooftops across the city. The International Kite Festival draws participants from around the world, including the UAE. Navratri in September or October features nine nights of garba dance in public squares and temple grounds. Diwali in October or November lights up the old city with lamps and fireworks. These festivals offer a deep cultural immersion.

The best time for a UAE visitor to experience these festivals is during the winter months, when the weather is pleasant. Summer festivals are rare due to the heat. Monsoon brings greenery but also humidity. For a quieter visit, avoid major festival periods if you prefer less crowds. The Sabarmati Ashram and Calico Museum are open year-round, though the latter requires advance booking. Always check local calendars for exact dates, as they vary annually.