Cheap Flights from Abu Dhabi to Shanghai Starting at $249

More than 11 airlines operate flights from Abu Dhabi to Shanghai, including China Eastern Airlines, Etihad Airways, Hainan Airlines, Nas Air, Airkenya Express, IndiGo, Air India, Air India Express, Air Arabia Abu Dhabi, Gulf Air, and Saudia. This is a popular route, so passengers can choose tickets based on budget and preferences. Ticket prices start from $249, and our service lets you instantly compare all options. The variety of offers simplifies planning: you can choose budget fares or more comfortable options with baggage included or extra services. We help you find the best deals so your trip is cost-efficient.

Abu Dhabi International (AUH) functions as the emirate’s primary international gateway and a full-service hub, hosting Etihad Airways alongside a mix of regional and international carriers; low-cost operators also use the airport but in smaller numbers. Located about 30–40 km from downtown Abu Dhabi, journey times to the city center can typically be 25–40 minutes by taxi or 40–60 minutes by bus, with fares ranging roughly from moderate taxi rates to low-cost public buses. The airport offers modern lounges and facilities, making it comfortable for transfers, though peak periods can be busy; convenience is strong for international connections but ground transfers can add time and cost.

Shanghai is served by two main airports with distinct roles. Shanghai Pudong International (PVG) functions as the primary international hub, handling most long-haul and intercontinental services and hosting full-service carriers and many global alliances; it is generally perceived as mid-to-high range in fare compared with domestic airports. Located about 30–40 km east of the city center, Pudong is reachable by the maglev plus metro (around 45–65 minutes, higher fares for the maglev), direct metro lines (about 60–75 minutes, moderate fares) and taxis or rideshares (typically 45–70 minutes depending on traffic, pricier). Pros: extensive international connections, modern facilities; cons: greater distance to central Shanghai and longer transfers for some neighborhoods. Shanghai Hongqiao International (SHA) usually serves as the city’s domestic and regional airport, favored by budget and full-service Chinese carriers on short-haul routes and some regional internationals. It sits much closer to downtown — roughly 10–15 km west of central Shanghai — and is well integrated with the city via metro and suburban rail (around 20–35 minutes, low to moderate fares), as well as taxis (around 25–40 minutes depending on traffic). Pros: convenience and shorter transfer times for city access; cons: fewer long-haul options and can be busier during peak domestic travel periods.

The cost of a one-way flight from Abu Dhabi to Shanghai ranges from $249 (November 2025) to $338 (February 2026). On average, the ticket price is about $295–$301.