Mian Mujahid Shah, Gulf Today
The Pakistan's national carrier (PIA) announced direct flight to the country's snow-clad mountains and tourist destination, Skardu, which will start from Dubai International Airport on Friday (May 3). This was revealed during a meeting between Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, Pakistan’s Ambassador to the UAE along with Hussain Muhammad, Consul General and a delegation of PIA at Pakistan’s Consulate General in Dubai.
The meeting was apprised that PIA is starting direct flights to Skardu in the Northern Areas of Pakistan from May 3, 2024 (Friday) to facilitate tourists and residents of that area. Direct flights from Dubai to Skardu will be on Friday while from Skardu to Dubai on each Monday. However, connecting flights will be available throughout the week.
Highlighting the immense potential of tourism offered by Pakistan, Ambassador Tirmizi said that it was indeed a right step by PIA towards facilitating tourists and people of Gilgit-Baltistan region. He added that Pakistan is home to five above 8,000 meter peaks (4 are in Skardu) and 108 peaks above 7,000 metres.
Faisal Niraz Tirmizi, Hussain Muhammad (R) and Zeeshan Ahmed (L) at Pakistan's Consulate in Dubai.
Tirmizi invited residents of UAE to explore the unmatched natural beauty of the Northern Areas while availing the opportunity of taking direct flight to one of the world’s most scenic destinations. Katpana Cold Desert in Skardu at an altitude of 2,226 metres is the highest cold desert in the world. Skardu is home to beautiful lakes, valleys, and amazing landscapes, added Ambassador Tirmizi.
The PIA’s team included Zeeshan Ahmed, Regional Manager Middle East, Muhammad Qasim Abbasi, Sales Executive, Sarmad Aizaz, Manager Sharjah & Northern Emirates and Saima Aslam Area Manager Abu Dhabi.
Zeeshan Ahmed thanked the ambassador for promoting and supporting the initiative by PIA.