[aviation news]
Emirates has proudly introduced its new daily flight service to Shenzhen, marking its fourth destination in mainland China.
This move strengthens the airline’s growth strategy in East Asia. On July 1, 2025, Emirates’ inaugural flight, EK328, landed at Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport, greeted by distinguished guests and media.
Passengers on this special flight from Dubai received commemorative gifts and certificates to celebrate the occasion.
Operations to Four Chinese Cities
With this new route, Emirates now operates 42 weekly flights to four major Chinese cities: Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen. This expansion enhances travel options and connectivity for both passengers and businesses in mainland China.
The daily flights to Shenzhen are operated by a four-class Boeing 777-300ER, offering a premium travel experience. Flight EK328 departs Dubai at 10:05 AM and arrives in Shenzhen at 10:00 PM.
The return flight, EK329, leaves Shenzhen at 11:55 PM and lands in Dubai at 3:40 AM the following day.
Emirates has designed the flight schedule for easy connections through Emirates’ Dubai hub, linking Shenzhen to key European cities like London, Paris, Frankfurt, and Amsterdam.
Travelers can also connect effortlessly to destinations in Kenya, Egypt, South Africa, and Saudi Arabia, leveraging Emirates’ extensive global network.
Passengers flying to Shenzhen will enjoy Emirates’ upgraded Boeing 777, featuring modern interiors. The aircraft offers 8 private First Class suites. There are 40 lie-flat Business Class seats in a 1-2-1 layout with aisle access for all. This is complemented by 24 Premium Economy seats, and 260 spacious Economy Class seats.
Shenzhen is the first city in mainland China to experience Emirates’ retrofitted aircraft, complete with its award-winning Premium Economy cabin.
Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officershared his excitement about the launch. “Shenzhen is one of China’s most vibrant and innovative cities. This new service reflects our commitment to expanding in mainland China and supporting its trade and tourism goals.”
“It also strengthens the growing ties between China and the UAE. By connecting Shenzhen, a key part of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, to our global network, we’re fostering innovation and business opportunities.”
“We thank the Civil Aviation Administration of China, Shenzhen Airport Group, and our local partners for their support in making this possible.”
Boosting Trade and Cargo Operations
Emirates has been a key player in China since 2004, connecting over 50 countries along the Belt and Road Initiative. The new Shenzhen route will drive tourism from GCC countries and Africa to the Greater Bay Area while supporting industries like smart manufacturing, e-commerce, and biopharmaceuticals.
The Boeing 777-300ER offers 16 tonnes of cargo capacity per flight, strengthening the “Aerial Silk Road” by linking Shenzhen’s advanced manufacturing sector to global markets.
Emirates’ advanced cold chain facilities ensure seamless transport of perishable goods and pharmaceuticals worldwide.
Deepening UAE-China Relations
The UAE is China’s largest trading partner in the Middle East, with bilateral trade reaching $95 billion in 2023.
Aviation plays a vital role in this partnership, and Emirates’ expansion aligns with the deepening UAE-China strategic cooperation in trade, technology, logistics, and investment.
Travelers from the UAE and other GCC countries can now visit China visa-free for up to 30 days, making business and leisure trips to Shenzhen and beyond more convenient.
Emirates’ new Shenzhen service underscores its commitment to enhancing global connectivity in mainland China.
By offering seamless travel and cargo solutions, the airline is poised to support the region’s economic growth and strengthen ties between the UAE and China.
This launch is a strategic step in Emirates’ East Asia expansion, ensuring travelers and businesses benefit from greater access to one of the world’s most dynamic markets.
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