Emirates has officially launched a new daily service to Shenzhen, expanding its network in the Chinese mainland to four cities and further strengthening its East Asia growth strategy.
The inaugural flight, EK328, landed at Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport on July 1 and was welcomed by officials and media representatives.
Fourth mainland destination
With the addition of Shenzhen, Emirates now operates 42 weekly flights to the Chinese mainland, including services to Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou. The new route enhances travel options for passengers and businesses and reflects growing ties between the UAE and China.
The Dubai-Shenzhen route is served by a four-class Boeing 777-300ER. Flight EK328 departs Dubai at 10:05 AM and arrives in Shenzhen at 10:00 PM.
The return service, EK329, leaves Shenzhen at 11:55 PM and reaches Dubai at 3:40 AM the following day.
Improved connections and capacity
Flight timings are designed to allow smooth onward connections via Dubai to key destinations in Europe — including London, Paris, Frankfurt, and Amsterdam — as well as to cities in Africa and the Middle East.
Adnan Kazim, Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer at Emirates Airline, said: “We are excited to launch our new daily service to Shenzhen – one of China’s most dynamic and innovative cities. This milestone reflects Emirates’ ongoing commitment to strengthening our presence in the Chinese mainland and supporting the country’s trade and tourism objectives.”
He added: “It is also aligned with the strengthening of China-UAE relations, and a strategic move to seamlessly connect the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area’s innovation corridor through our flights.”
Cargo and passenger services
Shenzhen is the first city in the Chinese mainland to receive Emirates’ retrofitted Boeing 777s with upgraded cabin interiors and Premium Economy. The aircraft features 8 private First Class suites, 40 lie-flat Business Class seats in a 1-2-1 layout, 24 Premium Economy seats, and 260 in Economy.
Each flight on the route offers up to 16 tonnes of cargo capacity, supporting Shenzhen’s manufacturing sector and enabling faster trade through Emirates’ global network. The airline’s cargo capabilities, including cold chain logistics, are positioned to serve industries such as pharmaceuticals, e-commerce, and smart manufacturing.
Trade and tourism boost
Emirates has served China since 2004 and currently connects to over 50 countries participating in the Belt and Road Initiative. The new Shenzhen route is expected to increase visitor flows to the Greater Bay Area, particularly from the GCC and Africa.
Kazim also acknowledged partners involved in the launch: “We would like to express our gratitude and appreciation to the Civil Aviation Administration of China, Shenzhen Airport Group and our local partners for their support in making this launch possible.”
China recently introduced visa-free entry for UAE and GCC travellers for up to 30 days, simplifying travel for both business and leisure purposes.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
