Quick answer
Delhi to Abu Dhabi is a non-stop flight of about 3 hours 50 minutes over roughly 2,280 km. Etihad flies it several times a day, and IndiGo and Air India Express run daily low-cost services. One-way economy fares start around ₹10,000 booked 3–6 weeks ahead in a quiet month. Indian passport holders need a UAE visa arranged before travel.
Route facts
- Flight time
- 3h 50m
- Distance
- ≈ 2,280 km
- Starting fare
- ₹10,000 one-way
- Airlines
- Etihad Airways, IndiGo, Air India Express
- Cheapest months
- Jul–Sep (outside Eid) and late Jan–Feb
- Entry
- UAE tourist visa arranged before travel; visa on arrival only if you hold a valid US visa or green card, or a UK or EU residence permit.
Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) to Zayed International Airport (AUH). Fares are typical starting one-way economy prices booked 3–6 weeks ahead outside peak dates — live prices vary by the hour.
Which airlines fly Delhi to Abu Dhabi non-stop?
Etihad is the main full-service option, with several flights a day. IndiGo and Air India Express each run at least one daily low-cost service. Flights leave from Terminal 3 at Delhi, which handles all international departures, and arrive at Zayed International, Abu Dhabi's airport (it was renamed from Abu Dhabi International, so older tickets may use that name).
What are the best flight timings?
Abu Dhabi is 1 hour 30 minutes behind India. Morning flights from Delhi land before noon local time and are the easiest with children. Etihad's evening departures suit anyone connecting onwards to Europe, the US or Africa. Late-night low-cost flights save money but cost you a night's sleep.
Baggage on Etihad versus low-cost airlines
Etihad economy includes meals and checked baggage, usually 20–30 kg depending on the fare brand, though its lightest fares can be stricter. IndiGo and Air India Express charge separately for meals and seats, and their cheapest fares can be cabin-bag only. Price your actual baggage before choosing.
Getting from Zayed International to the city
A taxi to the Corniche or central Abu Dhabi takes 30–40 minutes and costs about AED 75–100 (₹1,800–2,400). Saadiyat Island and Yas Island hotels are 15–30 minutes away. Public bus A1 runs to the city centre in about an hour for under ₹150. Etihad has offered a coach to Dubai for its own passengers — check eligibility when you book if Dubai is your base.
When to book, and connecting options
Book 3–6 weeks ahead. Fares rise in May–June, Diwali, Christmas–New Year and around Eid. Abu Dhabi is often a little cheaper than Dubai, and the two cities are about 1 hour 30 minutes apart by road, so compare both. Etihad also works well as a one-stop route to Europe and North America. Gulf airspace disruptions have caused delays at times in 2026, so check flight status the day before.
Tips for families and seniors
- Book Etihad if you want meals, a bassinet or a fuller baggage allowance included.
- Request wheelchair help at booking; both Delhi T3 and Zayed International provide it free.
- Carry a printed visa copy for check-in.
See our UAE visa guide, Abu Dhabi trip cost, things to do in Abu Dhabi and other flight routes.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Delhi to Abu Dhabi flight?
Is it cheaper to fly to Abu Dhabi than Dubai from Delhi?
Which airlines fly non-stop from Delhi to Abu Dhabi?
Do I need a visa for Abu Dhabi from India?
How we checked this page
Last reviewed
Written and fact-checked by the Elitech Travels editorial desk in New Delhi, drawing on our consultants' day-to-day booking work and the official sources below. Rules, fares and fees change — always confirm anything critical with the issuing authority before you travel. Our editorial policy.
