Emirates, one of BCECC’s patron members, has strengthened its presence in mainland China with the launch of two new destinations: Shenzhen and Hangzhou, marking a significant milestone in the airline’s expansion strategy. The additions bring Emirates’ network in mainland China to five gateways, alongside Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou.
Expanding Access to Southern China’s Key Hubs
On 1 July 2025, Emirates inaugurated daily services to Shenzhen International Airport, the airline’s first new Chinese destination in nearly a decade. Known as one of China’s most dynamic hubs for technology and innovation, Shenzhen now enjoys seamless daily connections to Dubai and onward to Emirates’ global network.
Later in the month, on 30 July 2025, Emirates further extended its footprint with the launch of daily flights to Hangzhou, enhancing connectivity to one of China’s most historic and fast-growing cities.
Emirates’ Growing Presence in Mainland China
With the addition of Shenzhen and Hangzhou, Emirates now operates 49 weekly flights to five major Chinese cities: Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Hangzhou.
In Hangzhou and Shenzhen, Emirates has introduced its renowned complimentary Chauffeur-drive service for First and Business Class passengers. The service offers exclusive transfers within an 80-kilometre radius of each airport, extending Emirates’ signature luxury offering to over 70 cities worldwide.
Enhancing Trade, Tourism, and Global Connectivity
The new routes are set to strengthen trade, tourism, and digital links between China, the Middle East, and markets beyond. Hangzhou, in particular, is expected to benefit from greater international exposure, offering Chinese businesses enhanced access to global opportunities while giving Emirates customers worldwide improved access to one of China’s leading technology hubs
World-Class Service Onboard
Emirates is operating its Boeing 777-300ER on both new routes, offering a full premium experience:
- On the Dubai–Hangzhou route, passengers can enjoy private First-Class suites, lie-flat Business Class seats, and spacious Economy Class cabins.
- On the Dubai–Shenzhen route, travellers benefit from the same award-winning First and Business Class experience, with the added option of the NEW Premium Economy, alongside Economy Class.
Across both destinations, passengers can enjoy Emirates’ award-winning ice inflight entertainment system, featuring over 6,500 channels in more than 40 languages, including a wide selection of Chinese content. Dining is elevated with regionally inspired menus, featuring popular Chinese dishes and desserts.
Strategic Partnerships for Broader Connectivity
Through interline and codeshare agreements with China Southern Airlines, Air China, and Sichuan Airlines, Emirates offers travellers enhanced connectivity across China, providing seamless access to destinations beyond its own network
Supporting China’s Tourism Growth
Emirates’ commitment to China goes beyond air services. The airline has established long-term partnerships to support the country’s tourism sector. In 2024, Emirates signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the UAE China Cultural Centre to jointly promote China as a premier destination across its global network
Please contact the Belgian-Chinese Chamber of Commerce (BCECC) in case you need more information.