Flights from Dubai to Islamabad, Pakistan

The capital of Pakistan, Islamabad, has a population of over two million. Many of the visitors arriving in Islamabad travel to conduct business in the financial center, known as the Blue Area. The city also welcomes many visitors for tourism, including visiting the city’s museums or the surrounding countryside where you can trek in the foothills of the Himalayas. With its abundant greenery, many visitors are struck by the beauty and tranquility of the city. In recent years, the restaurant scene has improved, providing a wide selection of eateries to enjoy.

Flying to Islamabad

1. Which airports serve Dubai to Islamabad?

Two airports serve Dubai, but it is likely your flight to Islamabad from Dubai will depart from Dubai International Airport, located just 5km from Dubai center. If you drive to the airport, there is plenty of car parking available. The Dubai metro is the quickest, cheapest way to get to the airport, and there are also bus services in operation. Al Maktoum International Airport is Dubai’s second airport and is farther away at 37km from the city center.

Islamabad National Airport is a new airport that opened in May 2018, replacing the Benazir Bhutto International Airport. Local buses serve the airport to transport passengers into Islamabad, but you will need a taxi to reach the bus station, so it is simpler just to take a taxi into the city.

2. Which airlines operate flights from Dubai to Islamabad?

There are at least four daily flights to Islamabad from Dubai operated by PIA, Emirates, Shaheen Air, and airblue. If you do not mind a stop, you can also fly with Gulf Air.

3. How long is the flight?

A direct flight to Islamabad from Dubai lasts about 3 hours 5 minutes. Islamabad is only one hour ahead of Dubai, so you should not need much of an adjustment after you arrive.

4. Climate changes between Dubai and Islamabad

Like Dubai, Islamabad has hot summers, but the winters in Islamabad tend to be quite a bit cooler than Dubai. Unlike the desert climate of Dubai, you may experience some rainy days, particularly in July and August, so don’t forget a raincoat if you are traveling then.

5. Culture differences and need-to-know

The currency in Islamabad is the Pakistani rupee. If you need to exchange money while in Islamabad, you can do this at most banks and hotels. While a credit card may be accepted, cash is far more widely used in Pakistan.

You will need a visa to go to Islamabad. Some nationalities can get a visa upon their arrival in Pakistan, but many will need to arrange for this in advance of travel.

Islamabad Information

After spending time in Dubai with its gleaming skyscrapers, modern buildings and lively nightlife, there is something restful about arriving in Islamabad. Your first impression is likely to be how green the city appears. The city is a quiet one, becoming even quieter at night. Unlike Dubai, which caters extensively for tourists, Islamabad has more business visitors, and those tourists who come are likely to be heading to the museums or using the city as a gateway to explore other parts of Pakistan.