China and UAE Explore Expanded Flights to Boost Economic and Tourism Links

China and the United Arab Emirates are poised to enhance their air connectivity as they seek to expand bilateral flight rights beyond the current limit of 56 flights per week for each country. This move aims to bolster trade and tourism between the two nations, which have seen stagnant growth in travel over recent years.

Officials from both sides are scheduled to convene in Beijing soon to discuss granting airlines additional flight opportunities between China and the UAE, according to sources familiar with the matter who requested anonymity due to the confidential nature of the discussions.

While no specific increase has been finalized, the talks are expected to explore possibilities for increasing flight frequencies, although the outcome remains uncertain.

The Civil Aviation Administration of China did not provide a comment in response to queries. Meanwhile, the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority highlighted the robust bilateral relationship and comprehensive economic partnership between the two countries, underscoring their cooperation across various sectors, including air transportation. However, they did not comment on the specifics of the upcoming negotiations with China.

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Enhancing air traffic between China and the UAE is seen as beneficial not only for bilateral ties but also for the broader Middle East region. Saudi Arabia, for instance, has witnessed a rise in Chinese visitors and investments, making increased flight connections pivotal.

Emirates, currently operating its maximum quota of 35 weekly flights to China, stands to benefit significantly from expanded flight rights, alongside China Southern Airlines Co., which presently operates 20 weekly flights to the UAE.

China, eager to revive international tourism post-COVID-19, has introduced visa waivers and streamlined visa processes to attract more foreign visitors. The UAE, in turn, was among the first destinations where Chinese airlines resumed international flights after pandemic-related disruptions.

Among the seven carriers servicing the China-UAE route, Etihad Airways PJSC is the only one not utilizing its full allocation, operating 10 flights per week out of a possible 21.

The potential lifting of flight caps would facilitate earlier plans for expanded routes between China Eastern Airlines Co. and Etihad, announced earlier this year. China Eastern, for instance, aims to launch flights to Abu Dhabi, contingent on securing additional bilateral rights.

Forward booking data suggests Dubai is set to be a key international destination for Chinese travelers this month, underscoring its importance as a hub for Middle East tourism.

Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia has been encouraging airlines to initiate direct routes to boost Chinese tourism, with carriers like China Southern, China Eastern, and Air China Ltd. already commencing regular flights to the Gulf nation earlier in the year.

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