Abu Dhabi offers strategic advantages for Chinese businesses
China Eastern Airlines (CEA) has announced the launch of a new direct route between Shanghai Pudong and Abu Dhabi. The service, set to commence on April 28, will make CEA the first Chinese airline to connect the two cities. The flights operate under a partnership with Etihad Airways.
The new route, designated as flight MU237/238, will operate four times a week, departing from Shanghai every Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday.
The service will be operated by an Airbus A330, which is equipped with high-speed in-flight connectivity, enabling passengers to enjoy seamless internet access throughout the journey.
Strategic advantages
Abu Dhabi offers strategic advantages for Chinese businesses, with its free trade zone policies and strong energy and financial sectors. The launch of this direct route is expected to strengthen economic ties and facilitate greater business and cultural exchanges between the Yangtze River Delta and the Gulf.
The Shanghai-Abu Dhabi route of CEA marks a significant milestone in the strategic partnership between CEA and Etihad Airways. In December 2023, the two airlines signed a Memorandum of Understanding outlining collaboration in areas such as codeshare agreements, frequent flyer programs, cargo operations, and sustainability initiatives.
CEA now operates five routes to the Middle East, offering a total of 20 weekly departures. The airline’s existing routes include Shanghai–Dubai, Shanghai–Riyadh, Xi’an–Dubai, Qingdao–Dubai, and Kunming–Dubai.
