Listen to the article
Dubai, UAE – January 31, 2026 – UAE residents planning trips to India in 2026 can now take advantage of significantly reduced airfares as Air India Express rolls out its monthly PayDay Sale, featuring international tickets starting at just Dh235.
The budget airline’s latest promotion offers travelers competitive pricing across its extensive route network, with booking availability through January 1, 2026, and travel dates spanning from January 12 through October 31, 2026.
Affordable Fare Options for All Travelers
The sale features multiple fare categories to suit different travel needs. Lite fares begin at ₹5,355 (approximately Dh235), while passengers seeking additional flexibility can opt for Value fares starting at ₹5,590 (around Dh246).
UAE-based customers booking through the airline’s mobile application will benefit from waived convenience fees, while those using the website can avoid fees by selecting net banking as their payment method.
Additional Savings on Baggage and Upgrades
Air India Express has sweetened the deal with discounted add-on services. Travelers purchasing Lite fares can add 20 kg of international check-in baggage for approximately ₹2,500 (around Dh110), making it more economical for those traveling with extra luggage.
The airline’s loyalty program members enjoy exclusive perks, including 25% discounts on Business Class tickets for select Boeing 737-8 operated flights. Members enrolled in the Tata NeuPass rewards program can access additional savings when booking through official channels.
Special Concessions for Eligible Groups
The carrier has extended special fare concessions to several passenger categories, including students, senior citizens, and armed forces personnel along with their dependents. These groups can benefit from preferential pricing in addition to the sale discounts.
To enhance accessibility, Air India Express is offering flexible payment solutions such as EMI options and Buy Now, Pay Later schemes, enabling travelers to spread costs over time.
Fleet Expansion with New Aircraft
The promotion coincides with Air India Express receiving its first line-fit Boeing 737-8 MAX aircraft last week. The aircraft marks a significant milestone as the first plane built specifically for Air India since the Tata Group acquired the airline from the Indian government in 2022.
Registered as VT-RNT, the new aircraft features a special livery honoring Ratan Naval Tata, the group’s late chairman emeritus who passed away in October. The tribute reflects the airline’s connection to its parent organization’s leadership legacy.
Growing Network and Service Enhancement
Air India Express operates an extensive network connecting UAE cities with destinations across India and beyond. The airline serves 38 domestic airports and 17 international destinations, operating over 500 daily flights with a fleet exceeding 110 aircraft.
The PayDay Sale represents part of the airline’s broader strategy to maintain competitive pricing while expanding its market share in the lucrative UAE-India travel corridor. With approximately 3.7 million Indian nationals residing in the UAE, this route remains one of the busiest international travel markets globally.
How to Book
Travelers interested in taking advantage of the sale can make reservations through multiple channels:
- Air India Express mobile app (zero convenience fees)
- Official website (no convenience fees with net banking payment)
- Authorized travel agents and booking platforms
Customers are advised to book early to secure the best fares and preferred travel dates, as promotional seats are subject to availability and selling out quickly during high-demand periods.
Travel Period Covers Major Events
The extended travel window from January 12 to October 31, 2026, encompasses several important occasions when UAE-India travel typically surges, including summer holidays, festival seasons, and business travel periods.
This strategic timing allows both leisure and business travelers to plan trips well in advance while securing discounted fares for various occasions throughout the year.
About Air India Express: Air India Express is a subsidiary of Air India and part of the Tata Group. The airline operates as a budget carrier focusing on short-haul international routes, with significant operations connecting India with Gulf countries. The airline is known for its extensive Middle East-India network and competitive pricing strategy.
Note: Prices mentioned are approximate conversions and subject to change based on currency exchange rates. Travelers should verify final prices and terms during the booking process.
