Dubai

Dubai Overview

Chinese Name: English IPA: Location: Population (city): Language: Zip code: Tel code: Time zone:

Traveling from Dubai to China opens up a world of rich cultural experiences, ancient landmarks, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re heading to Beijing to witness the Great Wall, exploring Shanghai’s modern skyline, or immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Yunnan, this guide will provide essential details on planning your trip to China from Dubai.


When to Visit China from Dubai

The best times to visit China depend on the regions you plan to explore:

  • Spring (March to May): This is one of the best seasons to visit cities like Beijing, Xi’an, and Hangzhou due to the mild weather and blooming flowers.
  • Autumn (September to November): Ideal for cities like Chengdu, Guilin, and Yunnan, when the temperatures are pleasant and the scenery is spectacular.
  • Winter (December to February): Visit cities in southern China such as Guangzhou, Hong Kong, and Macau where temperatures are more moderate, or explore Harbin for winter sports and the famous Ice Festival.

Top Cities to Visit in China

1. Beijing

  • Attractions: Great Wall of China, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven
  • Best Time to Visit: Spring and Autumn for mild weather and fewer tourists.

2. Xi’an

  • Attractions: Terracotta Army, Ancient City Wall, Big Wild Goose Pagoda
  • Best Time to Visit: March to May and September to November.

3. Shanghai

  • Attractions: The Bund, Yu Garden, Shanghai Tower
  • Best Time to Visit: April to October for favorable weather.

4. Chengdu

  • Attractions: Giant Panda Research Base, Jinli Street, Mount Qingcheng
  • Best Time to Visit: Spring and Autumn for the mild climate.

5. Guangzhou and Shenzhen

  • Attractions: Canton Tower, Shenzhen’s Window of the World, Temple of the Six Banyan Trees
  • Best Time to Visit: Spring and Autumn.

6. Yunnan (Kunming, Lijiang, Dali)

  • Attractions: Stone Forest, Shangri-La, Tiger Leaping Gorge
  • Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with Spring and Autumn providing the best weather.

7. Hong Kong

  • Attractions: Victoria Peak, Hong Kong Disneyland, Star Ferry
  • Best Time to Visit: October to December.

8. Tibet (Lhasa)

  • Attractions: Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Mount Everest
  • Best Time to Visit: May to October for warmer weather.

How to Travel from Dubai to the Main Cities of China

Flights from Dubai to China

The easiest way to travel from Dubai to China is by air. There are direct flights to several major cities in China, as well as connecting flights via regional hubs.

Direct Flights from Dubai

Several airlines offer direct flights from Dubai International Airport (DXB) to key cities in China:

  • Dubai to Beijing (PEK)

    • Flight Time: Approx. 8 hours
    • Airlines: Emirates, China Eastern Airlines
  • Dubai to Shanghai (PVG)

    • Flight Time: Approx. 8 hours
    • Airlines: Emirates, China Eastern Airlines
  • Dubai to Guangzhou (CAN)

    • Flight Time: Approx. 8 hours
    • Airlines: Emirates, China Southern Airlines
  • Dubai to Hong Kong (HKG)

    • Flight Time: Approx. 7 hours
    • Airlines: Emirates, Cathay Pacific

Connecting Flights from Dubai

For cities not directly served, you can take connecting flights with layovers in regional hubs such as Doha, Istanbul, or Dubai. Popular connecting flight routes include:

  • Dubai to Chengdu via Doha (Qatar Airways)
  • Dubai to Shenzhen via Hong Kong (Cathay Pacific, Emirates)

China Visa for UAE Nationals

UAE nationals need a visa to enter China. Here’s what you’ll need:

Tourist Visa (L Visa)

  • Documents Required:

    • Completed Visa Application Form
    • Valid Passport (with at least 6 months’ validity)
    • Recent Passport-sized Photos
    • Round-trip Flight and Hotel Reservations
    • Proof of Sufficient Funds (such as bank statements)
    • Visa Fees (depends on processing time)
  • Processing Time: 4-7 Business Days

  • Where to Apply: Chinese Consulate in Dubai or Embassy in Abu Dhabi


Transportation in China

By Air

China boasts an extensive domestic flight network, and flying is the fastest way to travel between cities. For example:

  • Beijing to Shanghai: Approx. 2 hours
  • Beijing to Chengdu: Approx. 3 hours
  • Shanghai to Guangzhou: Approx. 2.5 hours

By High-Speed Train

China’s high-speed rail network is one of the fastest and most efficient in the world. Popular routes include:

  • Beijing to Shanghai: Approx. 4.5 hours
  • Xi’an to Chengdu: Approx. 4 hours
  • Guangzhou to Shenzhen: Approx. 30 minutes

By Bus and Metro

Buses and metro systems are available in all major cities. They are affordable and can be used for short-distance travel.


China Travel Tour Packages from Dubai

Explore some of the best China tour packages departing from Dubai:

7-Day Beijing and Xi’an Tour

  • Highlights: Great Wall, Forbidden City, Terracotta Army
  • Duration: 7 Days
  • Itinerary: Beijing (4 Days) → Xi’an (3 Days)

8-Day Shanghai and Hangzhou Tour

  • Highlights: Yu Garden, West Lake, The Bund
  • Duration: 8 Days
  • Itinerary: Shanghai (5 Days) → Hangzhou (3 Days)

10-Day Chengdu and Tibet Adventure

  • Highlights: Giant Pandas, Potala Palace, Mount Everest
  • Duration: 10 Days
  • Itinerary: Chengdu (4 Days) → Lhasa (6 Days)

12-Day Yunnan Exploration Tour

  • Highlights: Kunming, Lijiang, Dali, Shangri-La
  • Duration: 12 Days
  • Itinerary: Kunming (3 Days) → Lijiang (3 Days) → Dali (3 Days) → Shangri-La (3 Days)

Traveling from Dubai to China offers a wealth of experiences, whether you’re exploring the rich history of Beijing and Xi’an, the modernity of Shanghai, or the natural beauty of Yunnan and Tibet. With direct flights, efficient transportation options, and well-curated tour packages, your journey from Dubai to China is set to be an unforgettable adventure.