The launch of direct Iran Airtour flights between Tehran and Antalya has opened a new route for Iranian residents of the UAE travelling to Iran. With Iranian airlines’ flights to the UAE suspended since September 24, 2026, the route could provide another alternative alongside connections through Istanbul, Yerevan and Najaf.

Iran Airtour operated its first direct Tehran–Antalya flight on Monday, November 9, 2026, using an Airbus A300-600 registered EP-MDM. The service marked the resumption of direct flights by Iranian airlines to Antalya Airport after nearly two decades of restrictions. According to the announced schedule, flights will operate twice a week, on Mondays and Fridays, with tickets now available through booking platforms.

The route is particularly significant for Iranian residents of the UAE because two Turkish airlines, SunExpress and Pegasus, also operate direct flights between Dubai and Antalya. Under the current schedule, SunExpress operates five weekly flights on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, while Pegasus operates twice a week on Thursdays and Sundays. This means direct travel from Dubai to Antalya is available almost every day except Tuesday.

Both carriers are low-cost airlines, and their fares may be cheaper on certain dates than other options, including flights from Dubai to Istanbul. However, the total cost of the journey will depend on fares for both flights, baggage charges and whether an overnight stay in Antalya is required.

Antalya Airport is also one of SunExpress’s two main operating hubs. With its extensive network of direct flights to European cities, the airline could provide new options for Iranian passengers travelling from Tehran to Europe.

The addition of Antalya to the alternative routes between Iran and the UAE gives travellers greater flexibility to choose itineraries and compare travel costs.