Travel Guides & Articles
IndiGo Introduces Stress-Free Travel With City Check-In Service, Allowing Passengers To Drop Bags In Advance At Zayed International Airport In India : New Update
Published on
August 10, 2025 |
IndiGo announced onto offer its City Check-In service at Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi which will allow its passengers to check their baggage straight to the airside up to 24 hours before boarding. The service is designed to provide a more tranquil and convenient travel experience whereby travellers no longer have to stand in long lines at the airport on their day of flight. Passengers flying with IndiGo can now receive their boarding passes right at home as the airline has now introduced a facility that enables them to collect the passes at the convenience and also enjoy a seamless check-in process, reducing airport congestion. This is yet another example of the carrier’s renewed dedication to improving overall travel experiences and making it a convenience for travelers everywhere.
IndiGo, the leading airline in India by market share, is launching a new City Check-in service at Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi, starting Monday, August 11. This new initiative, developed in collaboration with Morafiq Aviation Services, aims to provide a smoother, more efficient travel experience by giving passengers greater flexibility in managing their pre-flight activities.
Exclusive Complimentary Check-In on Launch Day
To mark the commencement of this service, IndiGo is offering complimentary check-in services to passengers on August 11, the inaugural day. This gesture allows travelers to take advantage of the newly introduced service without any extra charge, making it a perfect opportunity to explore the added convenience and ease this service brings to the travel process. Travelers can enjoy a more relaxed and efficient check-in experience from the moment they drop off their luggage.
Flexible Check-In Timings for Enhanced Convenience
IndiGo’s new City Check-in service enables passengers to check in and drop off their bags up to 24 hours before their flight departs, offering added flexibility that alleviates stress during peak airport hours. This early check-in option helps passengers avoid lengthy queues and overcrowded check-in areas, providing a more peaceful pre-flight experience. In addition to baggage drop, passengers can also collect their boarding passes at their convenience, eliminating the need to rush to the airport on the day of their flight.
The new service is designed to streamline the entire airport process, allowing travelers to bypass traditional check-in counters and enjoy a more efficient journey. By handling their check-in ahead of time, passengers can focus on other parts of their trip, knowing that their flight details are already in order.
Reducing Airport Congestion and Improving Flow
The introduction of the City Check-in service aims to reduce congestion at Zayed International Airport, especially during busy travel periods. As airports often become crowded with long lines at check-in counters, this service allows travelers to handle their check-in process in advance, alleviating the burden on the airport’s infrastructure.
With this system, passengers can complete all check-in tasks at their leisure, and airport staff can focus on assisting travelers who need in-person support. This approach ensures smoother operations and allows the airport to handle the volume of travelers more effectively, ultimately benefiting everyone using the facility.
Benefits for All Travelers at Zayed International Airport
While IndiGo is the first airline to implement the City Check-in service at Zayed International Airport, it is not the only airline using this option. Other prominent airlines such as Etihad Airways, Air Arabia, EgyptAir, and Wizz Air have already adopted the service, allowing their passengers to enjoy the same convenience. This multi-airline participation ensures that the service is widely available to a diverse group of travelers.
The City Check-in counters are designed to be intuitive and user-friendly, ensuring that travelers of all experience levels can use the service with ease. Whether someone is a seasoned frequent flyer or a first-time traveler, the check-in process is simple and straightforward, with helpful staff available for support if needed.
Expansion Plans to Al Ain Starting September 1
Following the successful rollout at Zayed International Airport, IndiGo passengers will also be able to access the City Check-in service in Al Ain starting September 1. This expansion ensures that even more travelers across the UAE can benefit from the early check-in and baggage drop-off options. The Al Ain facilities will mirror those at the Abu Dhabi airport, providing ample parking and seamless check-in services, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience for all.
The City Check-in counters in Al Ain will be equipped with all the necessary amenities to facilitate a stress-free travel experience. Passengers will appreciate the convenience of being able to check in ahead of time and avoid the rush at the airport. The availability of convenient parking will further enhance the travel experience, allowing passengers to complete the check-in process without worrying about parking issues.
Making Travel Easier for All
IndiGo’s City Check-in service is part of the airline’s continued commitment to providing a better, more seamless travel experience for its passengers. Airport check-ins can often be a source of stress for many travelers, especially during peak hours when long lines and delays are common. By allowing passengers to check in and drop off luggage ahead of time, IndiGo aims to eliminate this source of anxiety and improve the overall journey for its customers.
As more travelers seek ways to optimize their time and streamline their travel, the City Check-in service provides a perfect solution. Passengers can save time by handling their check-in early and avoid the usual hassles associated with the traditional airport experience. Whether traveling for business or leisure, this service offers a convenient option to ensure that the journey starts off on the right foot.
IndiGo has launched a stress-free City Check-In service at Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi, allowing passengers to drop off bags up to 24 hours before their flight, reducing airport stress and enhancing travel convenience.
A Step Forward in Enhancing Customer Experience
The launch of the City Check-in service by IndiGo is an important development to streamline and improve ease of passenger travel through airlines and airports. By enabling customers to finalize their check-in information beforehand, the carrier is offering travelers added convenience to prepare and time their trip in a manner more conducive to their schedules. This will change the way in which travellers begin their journey, with a modern and hassle-free method to explore new destinations.
For passengers flying from Abu Dhabi, with the City Check-in service now available at Zayed International Airport and expansion to Al Ain set to begin in September, IndiGo is equipped to revolutionise the pre-flight process making travel easier and more accessible for passengers across the UAE. The initiative is part of the airline´s continuous service enhancement to offer a more personalized experience for its travelers.
Travel Guides & Articles
Second edition of SITM–South India TRAVMART concludes successfully in Chennai
The second edition of SITM–South India TRAVMART was held on August 29–30, 2025, at the Accord Metropolitan Hotel, Chennai, marking another milestone in the growth of the B2B travel mart series. The event witnessed record participation, bringing together 58 exhibitors that included leading airlines, hotel chains, DMCs, cruise lines, state tourism boards, and international tourism boards.
Strong Industry Support
This year’s edition was headlined by Chhattisgarh Tourism as the Gold Sponsor, represented by a delegation of 11 service providers. The Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board – South India and Sri Lanka also extended its support, flying in four service providers and hoteliers from Malaysia to present their offerings. The collaborative participation underscored the growing relevance of South India as a vital market for both domestic and international destinations.
Inaugural Ceremony
The mart opened with a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony graced by Sunil Kumar, President of TAAI, as Guest of Honour. He was joined by industry leaders including Hishamuddin Bin Mustafa, Director, Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board – South India and Sri Lanka; T. Devaki (TAAI); S.P. Rajendran (TAAI); Ross Masood (GITC); C.K. Raja (TAFI); Dr. Nitin Mittal (NIMA); and P. Ashok Kumar (ADTOI). Their presence lent weight to the event’s positioning as a platform for meaningful collaboration within the travel trade community.
Cultural and Knowledge Showcases
The cultural segment offered a delightful glimpse of South India’s artistic heritage through a Bharatanatyam performance by Smritika and Yogitha of Sridevi Nrithyalaya, along with students of Guru Dr. Sheela Unnikrishnan, who presented a soulful Ganesh Vandana.
Complementing the cultural showcase, the mart featured a series of knowledge sessions. Presentations were delivered by Chhattisgarh Tourism Board, Ren Tours (Bhutan), Sasta Europe, Turtle Down Under, and TRAVMART Marketplace, giving participants insights into emerging destinations and evolving travel trends.
High-Impact B2B Networking
One of the core highlights of SITM–South India TRAVMART was the intensive B2B networking, which saw the participation of nearly 200 pre-registered buyers from across Chennai, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Kerala. Over the course of the two-day event, these engagements resulted in more than 4,000 business meetings, showcasing the high level of demand and the opportunities for mutually beneficial partnerships across the region’s travel ecosystem.
Adding to the lively atmosphere, the mart also hosted exciting lucky draws. Prizes included complimentary visa services and discount coupons from Airocity Visas, holiday packages to Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan from REZBOOK, a hotel stay package from Lexis Hotel Group Malaysia, and smartwatches from TRAVMART Marketplace.
The success of the second edition of SITM highlights the growing importance of South India as a hub for both outbound and domestic travel opportunities. By bringing together tourism boards, global service providers, and a wide network of travel buyers, the mart once again reinforced its position as a vital platform for business development, networking, and knowledge exchange.
Travel Guides & Articles
Osaka Beats Tokyo? Agoda Reveals India’s Surprising New Favourite City In Japan | Travel
Osaka Beats Tokyo? Agoda Reveals India’s Surprising New Favourite City In Japan
For years, Tokyo has reigned supreme on the bucket lists of Indian travellers heading to Japan. But according to new Agoda data, there’s a twist in the story this year: while searches for Tokyo grew a healthy 59% between May and August 2025, Osaka stole the spotlight with a staggering 158% surge.
Agoda reports a 68% overall year-on-year rise in Indian searches for Japan, showing that the country is no longer just about Tokyo’s neon glow or Kyoto’s temples. From Osaka’s street food stalls to Okinawa’s beaches, Indians are discovering that Japan has far more to offer, and they’re hungry for it.
Osaka: India’s New Darling In Japan
Move over, Tokyo; Indians have a new crush. Osaka’s appeal is easy to understand. It’s a city that thrives on energy, from the bustling food heaven of Dotonbori to the family-friendly thrills of Universal Studios Japan. And when travellers want a break from the city buzz, Nara’s friendly deer park is just a short trip away.
Osaka is also less intimidating than Tokyo since its more warm, paced, walkable, and a little more relaxed. For Indian families, couples, and groups of friends, it’s the perfect mix of city adventure and easy day trips.
Beyond Tokyo And Kyoto: Indians Branch Out
While Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto remain the holy trinity of Japanese travel, Agoda’s data shows Indian travelers are widening their gaze:
- Fujikawaguchiko (+36%) – A gateway to Mt. Fuji, with postcard-perfect lake views.
- Sapporo (+18%) – Famous for its beer, snow festivals, and mountain landscapes.
- Hakone (+46%) – Famous for hot springs and romantic views of Mt. Fuji.
- Okinawa (+47%) – Tropical beaches and Ryukyu culture make it a top beach getaway.
- Nagoya (+41%) – Entering the top 10 for the first time, thanks to its history and castles.
This shift reflects a growing Indian appetite for nature, culture, and coastal escapes, not just urban thrills.
Why The Japan Boom Now?
“Japan’s mix of modern cities, cultural heritage, and natural beauty is striking a chord with Indian travelers like never before,” said Gaurav Malik, Country Director, Indian Subcontinent & Indian Ocean Islands at Agoda. And he’s right. Japan offers something for everyone. According to Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) Delhi Office, a record 233,000 Indian tourists visited Japan between January and December 2024, a jaw-dropping 40% surge in Indian tourists. And why wouldn’t it? Whether it’s anime dreams, cleanliness that would put us all to shame, or just a love for sushi, Japan has never been hotter on the Indian travel radar.
Travellers also made the most of a weak yen, which had slumped to the lowest level in 2024 since 1986, and people haven’t been afraid of opening their wallets to snap up bargains from hotels and destinations. And if Agoda’s numbers are any indication, 2025 is the year Indians are embracing Japan like never before. Tokyo may always be iconic, but it’s Osaka, with its neon nights, savoury takoyaki, that is winning our hearts.
Travel News – Find latest news and tips based on Indian and World travel including top 10 travel destination, tourism information, how to reach visit and more at Times Now.
InsideAsia aims to “shake up the market” with the launch of its newest destination: India.
The specialist tour operator – part of Inside Travel Group, together with InsideJapan – is offering 12 “cultural adventures” across six regions and 80 different destinations in India.
Jess Andrews, Inside Travel Group’s South Asia programme manager, joined the company early last year to develop a “standout” India programme.
She has worked with India for almost 20 years with companies such as Ampersand Travel and Abercrombie & Kent.
“India is a sleeping giant. It’s a place of almost endless adventure and diversity which has been so underserviced by the majority of the UK travel industry for many years now,” she said.
“We have set out to shake up the market and offer cultural adventures with our own ‘Inside Travel’ stamp, aiming to represent this vast country and the variety of culture and people that make it so special.”
She said the tours go “way beyond” the ‘Golden Triangle’ to showcase India’s places, culture and people.
Inside Travel Group co-founder Alastair Donnelly added: “India has long been a missing piece of our Asia puzzle.
“This is our first new destination to launch since 2022, and we believe that with India, with our partners on the ground, the people we work across the country and with the cultural adventures we are able to create, we have something incredible.
“We have a team of five India travel specialists, with experience and knowledge from all over the country, but all united by their passion for the country and culture, and knowing what makes travel great.”
India sales and product specialist Brandon Clements joined the team earlier this year after 13 years at A&K as an India specialist.
“Jess and the team have shown that there is a conscious effort to offer something very different to what is already out there on the market,” said Clements.
“The cultural adventures on site are a snippet of what is possible, but they provide inspiration.”
Donnelly added: “As a B Corp that prides itself on using ‘travel as a force for good’, we hope that we can encourage people to explore beyond the usual, get beneath the surface and give back to communities across the country that would benefit from cultural adventure tourism.”
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