Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is set to begin direct flights to Skardu from Dubai starting May 3, 2024, aiming to enhance access to one of Pakistan’s prime tourist destinations and support the local tourism sector. According to Press Information Department, the announcement came during a meeting held at Pakistan’s Consulate General in Dubai, where Ambassador Faisal Niaz Tirmizi and Consul General Hussain Muhammad met with representatives from PIA. Ambassador Tirmizi highlighted Skardu’s significant appeal to tourists, noting its home to four of the world’s peaks above 8,000 meters and more than a hundred peaks above 7,000 meters. He emphasized the potential of these new direct flights to increase tourism and invited UAE residents to explore the natural beauty of Pakistan’s Northern Areas. The meeting also served as a platform for PIA officials, including Regional Manager Middle East Zeeshan Ahmed and other team members, to discuss the operational aspects of the new route. Ahmed expressed gratitude
towards the ambassador for his support in promoting this initiative, which is expected to make Skardu more accessible to international tourists and residents of the Baltistan region.