Planning a trip to China? It just got easier and visa-free for UAE residents. Emirates has officially launched its new daily service to Shenzhen, making it even more convenient to explore one of China’s most dynamic cities.

The new route, which took off from Dubai International Airport on July 1, marks Emirates’ fourth gateway in mainland China, after Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou. The daily flight service is part of the airline’s ongoing East Asia expansion, offering both business and leisure travellers enhanced connectivity between the UAE and southern China’s Greater Bay Area.

What to expect on board

Flights between Dubai and Shenzhen are operated by a four-class Boeing 777-300ER, featuring Emirates’ newly retrofitted interiors. Passengers can enjoy:

• First Class private suites
• New Business Class cabin with all-aisle access
• Premium Economy class — available in Shenzhen before any other Chinese city
• Spacious Economy Class seating

Daily Flight Timings

Emirates’ Flight EK328 departs Dubai at 10:05am and arrives in Shenzhen at 10:00pm. Return flight EK329 departs Shenzhen at 11:55pm, landing in Dubai at 3:40am the next day, perfectly timed for onward connections to Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.

Why Shenzhen?

Often dubbed China’s Silicon Valley, Shenzhen is a tech powerhouse, home to major global companies, world-class shopping, and cultural attractions. The city also offers easy access to Hong Kong, Macao, and the Greater Bay Area, making it a strategic entry point for tourists, investors, and entrepreneurs alike.

With the UAE now included in China’s visa-free travel programme, UAE passport holders can visit for up to 30 days without a visa,  ideal for spontaneous getaways, business trips, or reunions with friends and family.

How to book

Emirates’ new Dubai–Shenzhen service is now live and bookable via emirates.com, the Emirates app, travel agents, or Emirates sales offices across the UAE.