Emirates inaugurates Shenzhen route, expands footprint in mainland China

Emirates has launched a new daily service to Shenzhen, marking the airline’s fourth destination in mainland China and a major step in its East Asia growth strategy.

Flight EK328 touched down at Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport on July 1, where it was greeted with a formal ceremony attended by government and industry representatives. The milestone expands Emirates’ China network to 42 weekly flights across Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and now Shenzhen.

Operated by a retrofitted Boeing 777-300ER, the new route offers a four-class configuration, including Emirates’ recently introduced Premium Economy and an upgraded Business Class with direct aisle access for every seat. Shenzhen becomes the first mainland Chinese city to receive the airline’s enhanced cabins.

“This milestone reflects Emirates’ commitment to the Chinese market and the Greater Bay Area’s strategic role in global trade and innovation,” said Adnan Kazim, Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer at Emirates. “We’re pleased to offer travellers from both regions more choice, comfort, and connectivity.”

The service departs Dubai daily at 10:05, arriving in Shenzhen at 22:00 local time. The return flight leaves at 23:55, landing in Dubai at 03:40 the following day.

Shenzhen’s addition strengthens Emirates’ position in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, a fast-growing economic and innovation hub. The airline’s cargo capacity of 16 tonnes per flight will also support high-value sectors such as electronics, e-commerce, and pharmaceuticals, further aligning with China’s Belt and Road Initiative.

The launch was celebrated with a gala event in Shenzhen featuring performances by renowned pianist Lang Lang, singer Angela Zhang, and traditional Chinese artists. Passengers on the inaugural flight received commemorative gifts and certificates.

Emirates’ expansion comes as China recently extended visa-free entry for citizens of the UAE and other GCC countries for stays up to 30 days, making travel between the two regions more accessible. In 2023, UAE–China bilateral trade reached $95 billion, underlining the strategic importance of aviation links in boosting economic ties.

The new service is expected to boost both inbound tourism to China and outbound connections to Europe, Africa, and the Middle East via Emirates’ Dubai hub.