Emirates Launches Hangzhou Route, Expands Network in Chinese Mainland to Five Gateways
Emirates has officially launched a daily service to Hangzhou, marking its fifth gateway into the Chinese mainland and solidifying its strategic expansion in East Asia. This development comes less than a month after the airline introduced flights to Shenzhen, highlighting its aggressive growth in the region.
Flight EK310 arrived at Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport on 30 July to a warm welcome, complete with a ceremonial water cannon salute and a reception attended by local dignitaries, airport officials, and Emirates’ senior management. Passengers on the inaugural flight from Dubai received commemorative keepsakes, including Chinese tea tasting sets and certificates.
“China has become one of the world’s leading aviation markets, and Emirates is proud to have played a role in its development,” said Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer. “Adding two new gateways in just one month is a major milestone that reflects our deepening commitment to the Chinese mainland.”
The new route, operated by a Boeing 777-300ER, departs Dubai daily at 09:40 and arrives in Hangzhou at 22:00. The return flight departs at 00:10 and lands in Dubai at 04:55. With 49 weekly flights now connecting Dubai to Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Hangzhou, Emirates is enabling seamless travel for passengers from Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America.
Hangzhou, known as a powerhouse in digital trade and logistics, gains enhanced cargo capacity through the Emirates SkyCargo network. Each flight can carry up to 16 tonnes of cargo, ideal for transporting e-commerce products, electronics, and pharmaceuticals to and from emerging markets via Dubai.
Emirates also brings its premium travel offerings to Hangzhou, including complimentary chauffeur-drive services for First and Business Class passengers within an 80-kilometre radius of the airport. Onboard, travellers enjoy regionally inspired menus and over 6,500 entertainment channels in more than 40 languages, including Chinese.
With interline and codeshare agreements with China Southern Airlines, Air China, and Sichuan Airlines, Emirates passengers also benefit from enhanced connectivity within China.
As part of its broader commitment, Emirates has partnered with the UAE China Cultural Centre to promote Chinese tourism. The airline’s growth aligns with China’s visa-free entry for travellers from the UAE and GCC countries, allowing stays of up to 30 days.
The new route not only strengthens Emirates’ position in Asia but also fosters deeper economic, tourism, and digital linkages between China and global markets.
