Slated to play an important role in the 100-plus destinations on Emirates’ route map, Guangzhou (IATA code: CAN) will be Emirates’ fourth gateway in China, after Shanghai, Beijing and Hong Kong.

HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, spoke about the rationale of launching services into the city: “Guangzhou is a vital link in our strategic plans for both China and the Asia-Pacific region. It serves as an air travel hub for Guangdong and the South China provinces, which significantly expands our span and reach.

“The Emirates Group is no stranger to Guangzhou, as through our subsidiary in Singapore, Changi International Airport Services, we hold a 20 per cent stake in Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport Handling Co., which provides ground handling services at the airport.”

Starting 1st July, Emirates’ EK362 will fly non-stop to Guangzhou four times weekly on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays with an Airbus A330-200 in a two class configuration. Beginning 1st October, Emirates will also fly the route on Fridays.

Guangzhou is the third largest air travel hub in China and the capital of the Guangdong province, taking economic centre stage in the Pearl River Delta industrial zone. Earning the moniker “factory of the world”, Guangdong province has the largest GDP and the highest value of exports, attracting a high percentage of foreign direct investments and nearly 200 Fortune 500 companies. The Canton Fair held twice every year entices entrepreneurs and executives from around the world.

Guangzhou, however, is not just about industry and manufacturing. The city attracts large contingents of visitors to its historical sites that include 123 state-protected sites, street shopping and its ever-popular Cantonese cuisine. The city will host the 2010 Asian games.