Flying from Shanghai to São Paulo with a layover in Dubai – Here’s My Experience!
I’m thrilled to share my recent flight experience, hoping it will be helpful for anyone planning a similar journey. Let me take you through the details step by step!
**1. Confirm Your Itinerary:**
My trip consisted of two legs: Shanghai → Dubai → São Paulo.
✈️ **First Leg: Shanghai to Dubai**
Flight EK303 departed from Pudong International Airport (PVG) at 00:05 and arrived in Dubai (DXB) at 04:55. The journey lasted 8 hours and 50 minutes aboard Emirates’ iconic A380 aircraft.
🔄 After a layover of 4 hours and 10 minutes in Dubai, I boarded my second flight.
✈️ **Second Leg: Dubai to São Paulo**
EK261 took off from Dubai at 09:05 and landed in São Paulo (GRU) at 17:00, covering an impressive 14 hours and 55 minutes—again on the spacious A380.
😂 While both flights were delayed by nearly an hour, they remained remarkably smooth with only minimal turbulence throughout the journey.
**2. Use the Emirates App:**
Before your trip, download the Emirates app—it’s a lifesaver! You can check real-time flight updates, check in online, and even select your seat ahead of time. Following Emirates’ official channels is also a great way to stay informed about essential details like luggage policies.
👉 For instance, did you know that checked baggage allowances depend on whether your ticket follows a piece or weight-based system? Mine allowed two checked bags, each weighing up to 23 kg, plus one carry-on handbag not exceeding 7 kg.
**3. Arrive Early at the Airport:**
Plan to arrive at least two hours before your international departure. If you need to exchange currency, aim for three hours to ensure plenty of time.
👉 Keep in mind that airport exchange rates tend to be slightly higher than those at banks. At the time of my trip, the rate was 1:1.76, and I exchanged money conveniently at Ctrip Foreign Currency Exchange located near T2 A Island at Pudong Airport (see Pic 2).
**4. Check-In Process:**
The process is straightforward but differs slightly from domestic flights:
– Check in at the counter.
– Drop off your checked luggage.
– Fill out customs and health declarations, then proceed through immigration.
– Pass through security checks.
– Finally, make your way to the boarding gate.
**5. Onboard Comforts:**
Once onboard, you’ll find cozy blankets and noise-canceling headphones waiting for you. Before takeoff, switch your phone to airplane mode. Afterward, follow the in-flight announcements to connect to Wi-Fi via the browser by searching for “onair.” While there are free and paid options, I found the connection unreliable despite paying $19.90—messages wouldn’t even send! [Facepalm]
**6. Entertainment Galore:**
Each seat comes equipped with its own screen offering a wide selection of movies, TV shows, and games to keep you entertained. Just sit back and let the friendly flight attendants take care of everything else.
🐶 During the first flight, we enjoyed two meals—a light snack followed by a hearty main course. On the second flight, things got even better: after receiving a toiletry kit, we were served three meals—two full-course dinners and a final snack before landing (see Pics 3 & 4).
**7. Transit in Dubai:**
Navigating Dubai International Airport is easy—just follow the red signs indicating connecting flights. Be prepared for another quick security check for your carry-on items. Since I boarded at Terminal 3, I hopped onto a convenient shuttle train much like the ones at Pudong Airport. There’s plenty of time to explore duty-free shops if you’re feeling adventurous (see Pics 5 & 6).
**8. Final Leg to São Paulo:**
Board again, settle into your seat, enjoy some more entertainment, catch up on sleep, and brace yourself for this lengthy yet rewarding leg of the journey. [Sleepy Face]
Happy travels, and may your adventures be as seamless as mine!
Upon arriving in São Paulo, head to customs first. Here, staff might randomly ask you a few questions, like the purpose of your visit or how long you plan to stay. Of course, sometimes they may let you through without asking anything at all—it’s unpredictable! And don’t worry, vaccination certificates aren’t checked here.
Next, grab your luggage and push it through the second customs checkpoint. Staff will randomly inspect bags, so this step depends on your luck. Be sure to review the customs regulations beforehand to avoid any surprises—compliance is key!
Finally, make your way out of the airport and look for your driver, who will take you straight to your destination.
Smooth sailing awaits you!
Wishing you all a seamless and enjoyable journey!
