UAE-based international carrier Air Arabia on Tuesday said it will start direct flights between Sharjah and Goa from April 16 this year.

Upon commencing service, Air Arabia will be the only UAE-based international carrier to offer direct flights to Goa from the UAE.

Departing on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, from Sharjah at 00:25 am and arriving at Goa at 05:05 am, the return flight is scheduled at 05:50 am to arrive in Sharjah at 7.35 am.

"Air Arabia is pleased to announce the launch of service to Goa," Air Arabia commercial department head A K Nizar said.

"Famous for its sun-kissed sandy beaches and natural beauty, Goa is India's premier tourist destination. With a high tourist inflow in to Goa, the route promises to be of great potential for Air Arabia, especially since there are few direct flights from the UAE.

"We are confident that Air Arabia's non-stop flights to Goa will further enhance its popularity among travellers based in the region," Nizar added.

Goa's beaches, places of worship and world heritage architecture is a popular destination for tourists, especially Western countries nationals who reside in West Asia.