Shipping goods from China to the United Arab Emirates? When speed, security, and reliability are non-negotiable, air freight from China to UAE is the most efficient logistics solution.
In 2025, importers, e-commerce sellers, and supply chain managers are increasingly choosing air shipping to handle everything from urgent shipments to high-value electronics. Why? Because it offers:
Fast delivery in 2–6 business days
Faster customs clearance and lower risk of delays
Door-to-door and DDP air freight options for ultimate convenience
Whether you’re shipping to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, or any UAE city, air cargo helps you stay competitive in a fast-moving global trade environment.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover:
How air freight services from China to UAE work
Average air freight cost per kg
Transit times and documentation
Rates from over 20 Chinese cities (including Shanghai, Shenzhen, Yiwu, Chengdu, and more)
Expert tips for choosing the right freight forwarder
And much more
Let’s take off with everything you need to know about air cargo shipping from China to UAE in 2025.
Why Air Freight Is the Smart Choice for UAE Imports
Air freight isn’t just about speed—it’s about control, predictability, and reducing risk in your international shipping strategy. For many importers shipping to the UAE, air cargo has become the go-to choice for managing urgent shipments and high-value goods.
Ideal for Time-Sensitive and High-Value Products
Air shipping from China to UAE is best suited for:
High value products like electronics, watches, and medical equipment
Perishable goods that require short transit time
Time sensitive shipments for promotional events or exhibitions
Fast-moving e-commerce orders needing fast delivery
With cargo shipping by air, your goods typically spend only 7–9 hours in flight, and most shipments are delivered in 2–6 business days, including export preparation and customs clearance on both ends.
Lower Risk and Higher Security
Unlike ocean freight, air cargo:
Is handled fewer times (less damage risk)
Travels faster (less exposure to theft or spoilage)
Is subject to strict airport screening and documentation procedures
If you’re dealing with fragile items, electronics, cosmetics, or pharmaceutical goods, air freight services from China to UAE provide added peace of mind.
A Reliable Logistics Asset in 2025
The post-COVID trade environment, rising consumer demand, and e-commerce expansion in the Gulf have made air freight a core part of global cargo shipping strategies. It bridges supply chain gaps while helping you maintain delivery promises in a competitive marketplace.
Top Airports in China and UAE for Air Freight
Choosing the right airports for your air freight from China to UAE can significantly impact both cost and transit time. Fortunately, both countries are home to some of the most advanced and cargo-efficient airports in the world.
Major Departure Airports in China
China boasts more than 30 international airports capable of handling commercial air cargo. Some of the most popular airports for air shipping to the UAE include:
Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport (SZX) – A hub for electronics, consumer goods, and cross-border e-commerce.
Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN) – Ideal for fast processing and consolidated shipments from South China.
Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) – A top choice for large volumes, fashion goods, and medical equipment.
Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) – Convenient for northern China exporters.
Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) – Known for quick customs clearance and wide airline connectivity.
Other rising cargo airports include Chengdu, Hangzhou, Yiwu, Zhengzhou, Xiamen, Ningbo, and Chongqing—each offering efficient air freight access to the UAE.
Main Arrival Airports in the UAE
When your goods land in the UAE, they’ll typically pass through one of these major airports:
Dubai International Airport (DXB) – The region’s busiest airport for cargo, offering daily direct cargo flights from major Chinese cities.
Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) – Located in Dubai South, this airport handles bulk cargo and scheduled freight forwarding operations.
Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) – Ideal for shipments bound for the western UAE and large-scale commercial imports.
These major airports offer fast clearance, professional handling, and connectivity to last-mile distribution networks across the UAE.
With top air freight carriers like Emirates SkyCargo, Etihad Cargo, SF Airlines, and China Southern Airlines operating on these routes, your shipment is in safe, efficient hands.
Air Freight Transit Time from China to UAE (2025)
One of the top reasons businesses choose air freight is speed. Compared to sea freight, which can take 25–40 days, air freight from China to UAE typically takes just 2 to 6 business days from pickup to final delivery.
Here’s a breakdown of the complete timeline:
Flight Duration
Direct flights between China and the UAE—such as from Shanghai, Shenzhen, or Guangzhou to Dubai—take approximately 7 to 9 hours. These are operated by leading air freight carriers such as Emirates SkyCargo, SF Airlines, and Etihad Cargo.
Export Handling in China
Cargo pickup, consolidation, and customs clearance
Typically takes 1–2 business days, depending on documentation readiness and airport congestion
Import Clearance in the UAE
UAE customs clearance, inspection, and document processing
Usually completed in 1–3 business days, especially when working with an experienced freight forwarder or customs broker
Final Delivery
Final door-to-door delivery or free zone drop-off
Often occurs same-day after clearance if arranged in advance
So, if your shipment is well-prepared and your documents are accurate, your shipment arrives in as little as 2–3 business days. For time sensitive shipments, you can request express courier services such as FedEx, DHL Express, or UPS, which may deliver even faster.
Factors That Affect Transit Time:
Origin city and distance to the airport
Flight availability and whether it’s a direct route
Customs delays or document discrepancies
Peak seasons like Ramadan, Chinese New Year, or year-end holidays
Air Freight Cost from China to UAE: How Pricing Works
Understanding air freight costs from China to UAE is essential for accurate budgeting and quote comparisons. Air cargo pricing is usually calculated on a per kilogram (kg) basis and varies depending on weight, origin, and service level.
What Affects the Price?
Chargeable Weight (CMB Calculation)
Airlines charge based on the greater of:Actual weight (kg)
Volumetric weight (CMB – Cubic Meter Basis), calculated as:
Length × Width × Height (cm) ÷ 6000
This ensures fair pricing for light but bulky cargo.
👉 Want to calculate your shipment’s CMB easily?
Use our Chargeable Weight Calculator to determine your air freight billing weight in seconds.Origin Airport
Rates from Yiwu, Zhengzhou, or Hong Kong may vary depending on local fees and air freight carrier availability.Service Speed & Type
Standard air freight (airport-to-airport): Cost-effective
Express courier services (e.g. FedEx, DHL): Faster but pricier
Door-to-door or DDP services: Include customs, pickup, and delivery
Freight Volume & Seasonality
Bulk cargo (300+ kg) often qualifies for discounted air freight rates. Watch for seasonal surcharges during:Ramadan
Chinese New Year
Q4 retail seasons
What’s the Average Air Freight Cost Per KG?
Weight Bracket | Standard Air Freight | Express Courier (e.g. DHL/FedEx) |
|---|---|---|
100 kg | $3.70 – $4.10/kg | $6.80 – $8.50/kg |
300 kg | $3.40 – $3.80/kg | $6.30 – $7.50/kg |
These are average air freight rates from China to UAE. For precise pricing, request a full freight quote from your forwarder that includes:
Pickup & handling fees
Export clearance
Airline fuel surcharges
Import customs clearance and delivery charges
Air Freight Rates from China to UAE – 20 Cities Table (100kg & 300kg)
To help you estimate your shipping budget, here is a detailed list of air freight rates from China to UAE based on the most common weight brackets: 100 kg and 300 kg. This table covers 20 major Chinese cities, giving you a clear view of cost variation based on origin.
Note: These prices are airport-to-airport estimates. Final costs may vary based on cargo type, chargeable weight (CMB), season, and whether you choose door-to-door or DDP service.
👉 Need help calculating the correct weight? Use our Chargeable Weight Calculator to convert volume to billable kilograms.
Air freight service from China to UAE | Weight Category | Air freight rates (USD/kg) |
|---|---|---|
Air freight from Shanghai to UAE – rate per kg | 100 kg / 300 kg | $3.80 / $3.50 |
How much is air cargo from Shenzhen to UAE? | 100 kg / 300 kg | $3.90 / $3.60 |
Air freight cost from Guangzhou to UAE – 100kg & 300kg | 100 kg / 300 kg | $3.85 / $3.55 |
Shipping air freight from Beijing to UAE – updated price | 100 kg / 300 kg | $3.00 / $3.70 |
What is the rate for air shipping from Hong Kong to UAE? | 100 kg / 300 kg | $3.70 / $3.40 |
Air cargo delivery from Hangzhou to UAE – per kg | 100 kg / 300 kg | $3.80 / $3.50 |
How much does it cost to ship air cargo from Chengdu to UAE? | 100 kg / 300 kg | $3.00 / $3.70 |
Air freight service from Zhengzhou to UAE – freight quote | 100 kg / 300 kg | $3.90 / $3.60 |
Shipping cost from Xiamen to UAE – air cargo | 100 kg / 300 kg | $3.85 / $3.55 |
Air cargo pricing from Yiwu to UAE – per kg | 100 kg / 300 kg | $3.95 / $3.65 |
Air shipping rate from Ningbo to UAE – 100kg / 300kg | 100 kg / 300 kg | $3.90 / $3.60 |
What is the air freight rate from Nanjing to UAE? | 100 kg / 300 kg | $3.95 / $3.65 |
How much to ship air cargo from Changsha to UAE? | 100 kg / 300 kg | $3.00 / $3.70 |
Air freight charge from Qingdao to UAE – cost overview | 100 kg / 300 kg | $3.10 / $3.80 |
What is the cost of air freight from Tianjin to UAE? | 100 kg / 300 kg | $3.95 / $3.65 |
Air cargo rate from Chongqing to UAE – 100kg / 300kg | 100 kg / 300 kg | $3.00 / $3.70 |
Shipping air freight from Wuhan to UAE – how much? | 100 kg / 300 kg | $3.90 / $3.60 |
How much does it cost to air ship goods from Dalian to UAE? | 100 kg / 300 kg | $4.10 / $3.80 |
Air freight quote from Shenyang to UAE – updated price | 100 kg / 300 kg | $4.00 / $3.70 |
Best rate for air cargo from Hefei to UAE | 100 kg / 300 kg | $3.85 / $3.55 |
For larger shipments or door-to-door/express service, contact us for a custom freight quote tailored to your cargo and route.
UAE Customs Clearance for Air Cargo: What You Need to Know
Once your air freight from China to UAE arrives—usually at Dubai International Airport (DXB) or Al Maktoum Airport (DWC)—it must go through customs clearance before delivery. Understanding this process helps avoid delays, fines, or surprise charges.
Required Shipping Documents
To ensure smooth clearance, make sure your shipping documents are complete and accurate:
Airway Bill (AWB) – Issued by the airline or forwarder
Commercial Invoice – Must include CIF value and product HS codes
Packing List – Details of items, quantity, and weight
Certificate of Origin – For specific goods or trade agreements
Importer of Record (IOR) information
Incorrect paperwork is one of the main reasons for customs delays. We recommend reviewing your documents with your freight forwarder or customs broker before dispatch.
Import Duties and VAT in the UAE
Most goods imported into the UAE are subject to:
5% customs duty, calculated on the CIF value (Cost + Insurance + Freight)
5% VAT, applied on the total landed cost (including freight, duty, and insurance)
Excise duties for certain categories (e.g., tobacco, soft drinks)
For B2B and commercial shipments, make sure your importer is registered with the UAE’s Federal Tax Authority (FTA) and can handle tax clearance.
Clearance Timeframe and Tips
Air freight shipments are typically cleared within 24–72 hours, depending on volume and accuracy of documentation.
DDP air freight services include pre-paid duties and taxes, allowing your goods to arrive fully cleared and ready for delivery.
Use local customs brokers or your forwarder’s UAE team to ensure compliance with customs regulations.
Door-to-Door and DDP Air Freight Shipping to the UAE
For many businesses, the easiest way to ship goods from China to the UAE is to use door-to-door air freight or DDP shipping services. These all-inclusive options reduce risk, save time, and eliminate the need for import expertise on the buyer’s side.
What Is Door-to-Door Shipping?
Door-to-door shipping refers to a logistics service where the freight forwarder handles the entire shipping process, including:
Pickup from the supplier’s warehouse in China
Export customs clearance
Air freight to the UAE
Import customs clearance
Final delivery to your warehouse, home, or free zone
This method is ideal for SMEs, first-time importers, or e-commerce sellers who want a turnkey solution with full visibility and no hidden steps.
What Is DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) Air Freight?
DDP shipping service goes one step further. Under delivery duty paid (DDP) terms:
The seller pays for all duties, VAT, and customs clearance charges
The buyer receives goods fully cleared, ready for immediate use or resale
No local license or import paperwork is required on the buyer’s side
This is especially helpful when:
The buyer is an individual (not a registered business)
You want to offer Amazon FBA or Shopify fulfillment
You’re shipping samples, seasonal items, or high-value goods
DDP is commonly used for shipments from Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Yiwu, and Shanghai, where forwarders operate bonded warehouses and established airline contracts.
Air Freight vs. Sea Freight vs. Express Courier: Which Is Best?
Choosing the right shipping method depends on your cargo size, budget, and delivery timeline. Below is a direct comparison between air freight, sea freight, and express courier when shipping from China to the UAE:
Air Freight – The Balanced Option
Transit Time: 2–6 business days
Best For: Medium-weight, time-sensitive, or high-value goods
Pros: Fast, secure, predictable
Cons: More expensive than sea freight
Popular Routes: Shenzhen/Shanghai to Dubai, Abu Dhabi
Air freight from China to UAE is ideal when you need speed without the premium price tag of express services. It supports larger volumes than courier and clears customs quickly with proper documentation.
Sea Freight – The Budget-Friendly Choice
Transit Time: 25–40 days
Best For: Bulk cargo or low-value goods
Pros: Lowest shipping costs per CBM
Cons: Slow, affected by port delays or weather
Used For: Furniture, raw materials, machinery
Sea freight is great for FCL (full container load) and LCL (less than container load) shipments where time isn’t critical.
Express Courier – Fastest but Costliest
Transit Time: 1–3 days
Best For: Urgent samples, documents, lightweight e-commerce parcels
Pros: Fastest option, door-to-door, includes clearance
Cons: Limited weight/size, highest per-kg rate
Providers: DHL, FedEx, UPS
Express shipping is ideal for time sensitive shipments, especially for B2C fulfillment or product launches.
Summary Comparison Table:
Shipping Method | Speed | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
Air Freight | ★★★★☆ (2–6 days) | $$–$$$ | Fast B2B shipments, electronics |
Sea Freight | ★☆☆☆☆ (25–40 days) | $ | Bulk items, cost-saving freight |
Express Courier | ★★★★★ (1–3 days) | $$$$ | Samples, urgent parcels, e-commerce |
How to Choose the Right Freight Forwarder for UAE Air Shipping
Finding a reliable freight forwarder can make or break your air freight from China to UAE. A good forwarder doesn’t just book cargo—they manage risks, ensure compliance, and streamline your entire international shipping operation.
Here’s how to evaluate the right logistics partner:
Experience with UAE Air Cargo
Choose a shipping company that specializes in air cargo to the UAE, with experience in:
Customs clearance at Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or DWC
Handling DDP and door-to-door services
Familiarity with GCC import regulations and VAT procedures
Clear, Transparent Shipping Quotes
Request a full shipping quote that includes:
Freight charges by weight (kg)
Export & import documentation fees
Fuel and security surcharges
Last-mile delivery cost (if needed)
Avoid hidden fees by asking for an all-in rate for airport-to-airport or door-to-door delivery.
Full-Service Documentation Handling
A quality forwarder will support you with:
Airway bill (AWB) issuance
HS code classification
Accurate commercial invoice preparation
Assistance with CMB and chargeable weight calculation
This ensures faster processing and fewer delays at customs.
Cargo Tracking and Communication
Ensure they offer:
Real-time cargo tracking tools
Dedicated customer support
Automated shipment status updates
Whether you’re shipping from Guangzhou, Yiwu, or Shanghai, a responsive team is essential for managing air cargo shipping efficiently.
Reputation and Global Network
Look for companies with:
Verified reviews from UAE importers
Partnerships with top air freight carriers
Local UAE presence or agent network for final delivery
Frequently Asked Questions – Air Freight from China to UAE
What documents are required for air freight to the UAE?
To clear customs smoothly, your air freight documentation should include:
Airway Bill (AWB)
Commercial Invoice
Packing List
Certificate of Origin (if applicable)
These documents must clearly state product description, HS codes, declared value, and consignee details.
What does Delivery Duty Paid (DDP) mean in air freight?
Delivery Duty Paid (DDP) means the seller pays for all import duties, taxes, and customs clearance costs. The buyer receives the goods at their destination with no extra paperwork or payments required. It’s ideal for e-commerce or first-time importers who want a fully managed shipping process.
What’s the difference between air cargo and express courier?
The main difference lies in speed and handling:
Air cargo (via airlines like Emirates SkyCargo) is best for larger volumes and scheduled logistics.
Express courier services (like DHL, FedEx) offer faster delivery, customs handling, and door-to-door service, but are more expensive per kg.
Use air cargo for B2B shipments and express for urgent samples or lightweight items.
How is import customs clearance handled in the UAE?
Import customs clearance in the UAE involves checking documentation, calculating duties based on CIF value, and releasing cargo upon payment. A freight forwarder or customs broker typically handles this within 1–3 days. Using DDP service can eliminate these steps for the buyer.
What’s the typical shipping process for air freight from China to UAE?
The shipping process includes:
Booking and cargo pickup
Export clearance and flight departure
Arrival in UAE, customs clearance
Final delivery to warehouse or customer
This usually takes 2–6 business days depending on the route and service type.