The addition of Shenzhen, Da Nang, and Siem Reap gives Emirates the largest and most diversified route network among any non-Asian airline in East Asia, offering 269 flights per week from Dubai to 24 points.

This latest expansion also marks Emirates' fourth gateway into the Chinese mainland, third destination in Vietnam, and second point in Cambodia.

"We remain committed to offering business and leisure travellers unparalleled access to Southeast Asia and the broader East Asia region by delivering an extensive flight schedule. Our expansion into Shenzhen opens new doors for business and economic exchange between this technological powerhouse and global markets," said Adnan Kazim, deputy president and chief commercial officer of Emirates.

Kazim noted that Vietnam holds a strategic place in the carrier's Southeast Asia network.

"Our decision to expand operations to Da Nang as our third point in Vietnam comes at an opportune moment, following the landmark Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between the UAE and Vietnam," he said. "We are confident that our new service will elevate the existing bilateral trade and commercial collaboration between our nations."

Emirates expansion to Shenzhen

Emirates noted that the entry into Shenzhen makes it the first Middle Eastern carrier to operate a daily flight to the Chinese mainland's technology and innovation hub. 

Emirates became the first airline to establish direct air connectivity between the Middle East and the Chinese mainland in 2002 when it started services between Dubai and Shanghai.

Shenzhen's flight times have been scheduled to optimize connections to and from key points across Africa and the Middle East/GCC, including Kenya, Egypt, South Africa, and Saudi Arabia; popular European business and financial centres in the UK, Italy, and Spain; and from the airline's key gateways in the United States and South America. 

Emirates noted that with its passenger and freighter operations, the carrier facilitates the transport of 2,000 tonnes of cargo each week from the Chinese mainland.

The addition of Shenzhen will also serve as a vital bridge between Chinese enterprises and global markets while deepening the economic partnership between the UAE and China.  

Emirates said Shenzhen's position as a technology manufacturing powerhouse generates valuable cargo streams requiring specialized handling and expedited delivery, particularly for sophisticated electronics and tech products.

The city is also part of a Special Economic Zone and continues to enhance its cargo-handling capabilities.

Emirates SkyCargo is expected to transport 10 tonnes of cargo per flight between Shenzhen and Dubai, supporting exports such as high-tech devices and e-commerce items.