Temporarily solubilized azo disperse dyes based on 1,2-substituted indoles were synthesized and characterized. Dispersant-free dyeing of polyester by using the synthesized dyes has been investigated. The colour yields of the dyes on the polyester fabric were found to be highly dependent on the dyeing pH, optimum results being obtained at pH 5. The dyes exhibited good to excellent fastness properties on polyester while lightfastness was moderate.