Distance Calculator
Shanghai, China → Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Distance Result
3,994 miles
6,427 km | 3,470 nautical miles
Straight-line (great circle) distance
The distance from Shanghai to Dubai is about 6,427 km (3,994 miles) as the crow flies, or 3,470 nautical miles.
This is the great-circle distance — the shortest path over the surface of the Earth, computed with the haversine formula from the coordinates of both cities. Road or rail distance is always longer, and the gap widens with every mountain range or coastline in between.
Putting the number to use
- At a cruising speed near 800 km/h the airborne time is about 8.0 hours; add 30-45 minutes for taxi, climb and descent.
- Time zone difference changes the arrival time on your ticket far more than the flying time does.
- For shipping, use road or sea distance instead — great-circle figures understate real routes.
Driving
≈ 2d 23h
Estimated at 90 km/h average. Actual road distance is typically 15-30% longer than the straight line.
Flying
≈ 8h 19min
Estimated at 850 km/h cruising speed plus takeoff and landing time.
Route Map
Distances from Shanghai to Nearby Cities
Frequently Asked Questions
The straight-line (great circle) distance between Shanghai and Dubai is 3,994 miles (6,427 kilometers).
A direct flight from Shanghai to Dubai takes approximately 8h 19min, based on an average cruising speed of 850 km/h plus takeoff and landing time.
Driving from Shanghai to Dubai takes approximately 2d 23h, assuming an average speed of 90 km/h. Actual time depends on the route and traffic.