Shenzhen Airlines Launches Direct Flights from Brunei to Shenzhen

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN – Shenzhen Airlines has launched a direct flight service between Brunei and Shenzhen, marking a significant step in enhancing connectivity between the Sultanate and one of southern China's key economic hubs. The inaugural flight took off on September 29 and is expected to bolster tourism and facilitate easier travel for both Bruneians and Chinese visitors.

The new service will initially operate as a charter for three months, with four flights per week. Following this period, it is set to transition into a regular schedule of three flights weekly. Anthony Lim, director of APG Brunei, which represents Shenzhen Airlines in the Sultanate, noted that this route will connect Bruneian travelers to a broader network across China, including major cities such as Shanghai, Chengdu, and Xinjiang.

“We hope through this Shenzhen Airlines networking, we can promote more incoming tourism to Brunei from different provinces of China.”Anthony Lim, Director of APG Brunei

Chinese visitors have shown a consistent interest in traveling to Brunei, with many previously arriving via regional hubs like Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. Before the pandemic, Brunei welcomed approximately 74,000 Chinese tourists in 2019, a number that significantly dropped during COVID-19. However, visitor numbers have been recovering, reaching 45,858 air arrivals from China in 2025, according to data from the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

Hajah Nur Fariza Munyati Haji Abd Aji, acting deputy director of the Tourism Development Department, highlighted the importance of this new route in attracting Chinese tourists. She mentioned that direct flights, together with visa-free entry of up to 14 days for eligible Chinese ordinary passport holders, make Brunei an accessible destination for short breaks and holidays. This initiative aligns with Brunei's strategic goal of achieving 900,000 international visitor arrivals as part of the Visit Brunei 2027 campaign.

“Direct flights, together with visa-free entry of up to 14 days for eligible Chinese ordinary passport holders, make Brunei an accessible destination for short breaks and holidays.”Hajah Nur Fariza Munyati Haji Abd Aji, Acting Deputy Director of the Tourism Development Department

Lim expressed optimism that the new air link could significantly increase the number of Chinese visitors to Brunei, stating that they hope through this Shenzhen Airlines networking, they can promote more incoming tourism to Brunei from different provinces of China. The new flights are anticipated to not only enhance tourism but also support local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and tour operators.

The launch of the Shenzhen route comes at a pivotal time as Brunei prepares for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Leaders’ Meeting in November 2026, further emphasizing the Sultanate's commitment to strengthening ties with China. This development follows Brunei's efforts to diversify its economy and reduce reliance on oil revenues, enhancing its appeal as a travel destination in the region.