Emirates launches new daily Dubai-Shenzhen flights
UAE travellers gain smoother access to southern China
DUBAI: Emirates has launched a new daily route to Shenzhen, further strengthening its East Asia network and marking its fourth gateway in the Chinese mainland.
The inaugural flight EK328 arrived at Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport on 1 July, where it was welcomed by government officials, media, and dignitaries.
The milestone flight reflects Emirates’ commitment to increasing connectivity to and from China, while supporting the UAE’s growing strategic and economic ties with the world’s second-largest economy. Passengers onboard the first flight received commemorative gifts and certificates.
With this addition, Emirates now operates 42 weekly flights to four major Chinese cities: Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen. The new service is expected to provide passengers and businesses with expanded travel options and greater trade access in the region.
Flight schedule & connectivity
The Dubai–Shenzhen service is operated by a four-class Boeing 777-300ER, featuring Emirates’ newly retrofitted interiors. Flight EK328 departs Dubai at 1005hrs and arrives in Shenzhen at 2200hrs. The return leg, EK329, leaves Shenzhen at 2355hrs and lands in Dubai at 0340hrs the following day. (All times are local)
The schedule enables smooth onward connectivity via Dubai to key European destinations, including London, Paris, Frankfurt, and Amsterdam, along with cities across Africa such as Nairobi, Johannesburg, and Cairo.
Upgraded aircraft experience
The new route to Shenzhen is served by one of Emirates’ enhanced Boeing 777s, featuring 8 private First Class suites, 40 Business Class lie-flat seats in a 1-2-1 layout, 24 Premium Economy seats, and 260 seats in Economy Class.
Shenzhen is the first city in the Chinese mainland to receive Emirates’ upgraded aircraft, offering the award-winning Premium Economy product and the new Business Class layout with direct aisle access for every passenger.
Strategic trade gateway
In cargo capacity, the Boeing 777-300ER offers up to 16 tonnes of space per flight, supporting Shenzhen’s role as a manufacturing and innovation hub. The new connection will serve industries including smart tech, e-commerce, and biopharmaceuticals, complementing China’s 72-hour global supply chain vision.
Emirates has been operating in China since 2004 and currently facilitates connectivity to over 50 countries participating in the Belt and Road Initiative. The Shenzhen route is set to enhance the “Aerial Silk Road,” linking Chinese exports with Emirates SkyCargo’s global network. The airline’s cold-chain transport capabilities will also ensure seamless movement of perishable and pharmaceutical goods worldwide.
Deepening UAE-China relations
The UAE remains China’s top trading partner in the Middle East, with bilateral trade reaching US$95 billion in 2023. Aviation is central to this growing economic relationship, and Emirates’ new service comes as the two nations enhance cooperation in trade, technology, logistics, and investment.
China’s recent visa waiver for UAE and GCC residents now allows visits of up to 30 days without requiring a visa, simplifying travel for Emirates passengers travelling for both business and leisure purposes.
Adnan Kazim, Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer at Emirates, stated: “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.”