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Cheapest flights from Shanghai to Abu Dhabi
Flaut.Travel was designed and developed by a team dedicated to making the process of searching, comparing and booking airline tickets as easy and convenient as possible. Our service helps travelers to find and buy the cheapest flights from Shanghai to Abu Dhabi. We have connected more than 40 airlines and airline ticketing agencies to help you find the most suitable and affordable flight option.
Remember that on average the ideal time to book flights is 2 months before departure!
A non-stop flight is the most convenient and comfortable way to fly from Shanghai to Abu Dhabi, despite the fact that sometimes flights with transfers can cost significantly less.
Schedule of direct flights from Shanghai to Abu Dhabi
Shanghai airports overview
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Abu Dhabi airports overview
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Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Answers to questions about the route that travelers are most interested in.
Special offers and sales on air tickets from Shanghai to Abu Dhabi
We keep tight track on airlines' pre-holidays sales and other special offers occurences all the time to let you save maximum amount of funds while traveling to your family or just going out on vacation.
Alternative routes
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Cheapest one way flight
$267
Gulf Air
1 layover
1d 10h 40m
12/02/2026
The cheapest one-way flight from Shanghai to Abu Dhabi departs on 12/02/2026, is operated by Gulf Air and costs $267
Cheapest round trip flight
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There is no information about the cheapest roundtrip flight from Shanghai to Abu Dhabi
The fastest flight
13h 35m
Fastest flight from Shanghai to Abu Dhabi takes 13h 35m
Direct flights
Every day
There are direct flights on this route 7 days a week: Su, Mo, Tu, We, Th, Fr, and Sa
Average flight duration
14h 31m
Distance
6541km
Timezone difference
4h
The distance between Shanghai and Abu Dhabi is 6541km (4055 miles). The average flight duration is 14h 31m. The time difference between Shanghai and Abu Dhabi is 4h
The route Shanghai — Abu Dhabi is served by many carriers — 11 in total, including Etihad Airways, China Eastern Airlines, Gulf Air, Air India, Qatar Airways, Thai Vietjet Air, Spring Airlines, Hainan Airlines, China Southern Airlines, Shenzhen Airlines, and Air China. This gives passengers wide opportunities: from finding the lowest fare (from $267) to selecting flights by schedule or service class. Our service aggregates data from multiple booking systems so you can compare offers in one place. This saves time and money: no need to check dozens of sites — just pick the right option and book online.
There are most likely no direct flights on the Shanghai — Abu Dhabi route
Shanghai is served by two main airports with distinct roles. Pudong International (PVG) functions as the city’s primary international hub, handling long-haul and many full-service carriers; it’s located about 30–45 km east of downtown and typically takes 45–60 minutes by maglev+metro or 45–75 minutes by taxi depending on traffic, with public transport fares usually modest and taxis mid-range. Hongqiao (SHA) acts as a convenience-focused airport for domestic and regional flights and some low-cost services, sitting roughly 10–15 km west of the center and reachable in 20–40 minutes by metro, local bus, or taxi. Pros: Pudong offers extensive international connections and modern long-haul facilities, while Hongqiao is closer and often quicker for domestic travelers. Cons: Pudong’s greater distance can add time and cost for city transfers, and Hongqiao may be busier and more limited for intercontinental routes.
Abu Dhabi International (AUH) is the emirate’s main international hub, handling full-service carriers like Etihad alongside some regional and low-cost airlines; it’s typically positioned as a premium gateway for long‑haul travel. The airport sits about 30–35 km from Abu Dhabi city centre, with taxi trips commonly taking 25–45 minutes depending on traffic and costing roughly AED 60–120; public buses and shared shuttle services can be cheaper but slower, often 45–75 minutes. Terminals are usually modern and comfortable with duty-free and lounge options, though crowds can build at peak times. For budget-conscious travellers, smaller nearby airfields are limited, so AUH is often the default despite slightly higher fares than secondary airports in the region.
What is the cheapest price for flights from Shanghai to Abu Dhabi?
The cheapest flight ticket from Shanghai to Abu Dhabi according to data for the last 48 hours costs $267
When is the best time to buy air tickets on the route Shanghai — Abu Dhabi?
Often the best time to buy tickets from Shanghai to Abu Dhabi is 2 months before departure.
When is the cheapest time of year to fly from Shanghai to Abu Dhabi?
Based on statistics over the past years, the lowest prices for flights from Shanghai to Abu Dhabi can be found flying in these months: October, November, January.
How long does it take to fly from Shanghai to Abu Dhabi?
The fastest flights from Shanghai to Abu Dhabi start from 13 hours 35 minutes in the air.
Which airline can fly direct from Shanghai to Abu Dhabi?
The following airlines operate direct flights on the route Shanghai — Abu Dhabi: Etihad Airways, China Eastern Airlines
In different months, ticket prices from Shanghai to Abu Dhabi vary: minimum — $269 (October 2026), maximum — $335 (September 2026). Typically, the flight costs $286–$560.
Price dynamics
Flight prices from Shanghai to Abu Dhabi barely change from month to month. You can comfortably choose any convenient dates — there won't be a significant overpayment.
Cheaper and more expensive periods
There is a slight difference: it's a bit cheaper in October 2026–November 2026 (averaging $269) and slightly more in September 2026–October 2026 ($302). But overall, the difference is small.
Best time to buy
On this route, you don't need to target specific months — prices are stable. The difference between the cheapest and most expensive period is only 11%. Book whenever it's convenient.
Price predictability
Monthly price variation is just 8.7%. Ticket costs on this route are among the most predictable.
