AMAC - China Eastern Airlines to launch direct flights between Shanghai and Abu Dhabi

Shanghai-based China Eastern Airlines has announced that it will launch direct flights between Shanghai and Abu Dhabi from April 28, 2025. This is the first time that a Chinese airline introduces a direct route between the two cities.

According to Amac News, based on a report by China Daily, the Shanghai-Abu Dhabi route will be jointly operated by China Eastern Airlines and Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways.
Flights are scheduled every Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday. Flights will depart from Shanghai Pudong International Airport, with return flights from Abu Dhabi on the same day (local time).
Abu Dhabi's strategic location, free trade zone policies and strong presence in the energy and financial sectors support Chinese companies to expand globally.
The new route is expected to boost trade, investment and cultural exchanges between the UAE and China. It will also strengthen connections between the Yangtze Delta region and the Gulf region, facilitating trade and tourism flows. The move will also help boost tourism in both Shanghai and Abu Dhabi, and help grow the hospitality and aviation sectors.