MUMBAI — IndiGo Airlines is set to strengthen its growing presence in the Middle East with the launch of a new daily, non-stop service between Mumbai (BOM) and Madinah (MED), beginning November 15, 2025. The new route will be operated by Airbus A320 aircraft and marks a significant addition to IndiGo’s international network, enhancing connectivity between India and Saudi Arabia for religious, business, and leisure travelers alike.
With this new route, IndiGo becomes the only Indian carrier offering direct flights between Mumbai and the holy city of Madinah, one of the most sacred destinations in Islam. Bookings for the service are now open through the airline’s website, mobile app, and authorized travel agents.
This expansion follows IndiGo’s existing operations of more than 150 weekly flights between India and Saudi Arabia, covering Jeddah, Riyadh, Dammam, and Madinah. The airline also plans to upgrade its current Hyderabad–Madinah service to a daily frequency starting November 16, 2025, reflecting rising passenger demand.
“According to IndiGo’s Head of Sales, Vinay Malhotra, the route addresses growing demand for travel to Madinah, a city of deep spiritual and cultural importance. With strong movement driven by religious tourism and workforce mobility, the airline aims to provide more reliable access to one of Saudi Arabia’s most visited destinations,” the company said in a statement.
Strengthening India–Saudi Arabia Air Links
The Mumbai–Madinah service will operate under the following schedule, subject to regulatory approvals:
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Mumbai–Madinah (6E 0059): Departs Mumbai at 22:05, arrives in Madinah at 01:10 (+1)
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Madinah–Mumbai (6E 0060): Departs Madinah at 21:50, arrives in Mumbai at 04:45 (+1)
(All times are local.)
The flight timings are designed to enable convenient onward connections through IndiGo’s extensive domestic and international network, allowing travelers from across India to easily reach Saudi Arabia’s religious and economic hubs.
IndiGo, which operates a fleet of more than 400 aircraft and runs over 2,200 daily flights, continues to consolidate its leadership as India’s largest airline. The carrier serves more than 90 domestic and 40 international destinations, transporting over 118 million passengers in fiscal year 2025.
Connecting India With the Heart of Islamic Heritage
Madinah, also known as Al-Madinah al-Munawwarah, is Islam’s second holiest city after Makkah and draws millions of pilgrims annually. It is home to the Prophet’s Mosque, Al-Masjid an-Nabawi — a centerpiece of faith and spirituality for Muslims worldwide.
The city offers visitors a rich cultural and historical experience beyond its sacred sites. Key landmarks include the Quba Mosque, the first mosque in Islam, and the Qiblatain Mosque, where the direction of prayer was divinely changed toward the Kaaba in Makkah. The nearby Uhud Mountain, site of the historic Battle of Uhud, provides a powerful reminder of early Islamic history.
Madinah’s vibrant souks, including Al-Baqi Market, feature local products such as dates, perfumes, and spices, while traditional Saudi dishes like Mandi and Kabsa highlight the region’s hospitality and culinary depth. The city’s peaceful atmosphere, coupled with modern amenities, makes it a destination that blends faith with cultural exploration.
Infrastructure and Accessibility
The city is served by Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport (MED), offering connections to major destinations worldwide. The airport’s modern facilities and efficient transport links provide a smooth arrival experience for international travelers. Within Saudi Arabia, the Haramain High-Speed Railway connects Madinah with Makkah, Jeddah, and Riyadh, offering quick and comfortable travel between the kingdom’s key cities.
A network of intercity buses, taxis, and ride-hailing services ensures convenient local transportation, particularly around the Prophet’s Mosque and the central business district.Travel, Accommodation, and Entry
Madinah hosts a wide range of accommodation options, including luxury properties such as The Oberoi, Madina, Millennium Taiba Hotel, and Intercontinental Madinah – Dar Al Iman, all located near the Prophet’s Mosque. Travelers can also access IndiGo’s partner hotel offers and loyalty rewards through its BluChips program.
Indian nationals traveling to Madinah are required to obtain a Saudi visa in advance. Saudi Arabia’s e-visa platform allows for streamlined online applications for tourist, business, or pilgrimage purposes.
With this new service, IndiGo underscores its commitment to expanding global accessibility for Indian travelers while supporting the deepening cultural and economic ties between India and Saudi Arabia.
