City Travel Briefing: Shanghai

Regional inbound flows growing

International arrivals to Shanghai grew in 2014, driven mainly by regional flows, particularly from Japan, Taiwan, South Korea and Hong Kong.

Pollution and economic slowdown concerns

Shanghai has maintained arrival growth, but concerns about the ongoing economic slowdown and pollution worries are potential future problems.

Introduction of 6-day transit visa

The introduction of a 6-day transit visa was recently announced, which will enable residents of 45 countries to visit for 144 hours en route to a further destination.

Cruises on the rise

Shanghai has three cruise ports, and has become a major stopping point for regional cruises, as well as seeing increases in the number of trips starting from its terminals.

Hotel openings continue

Despite concerns about oversupply, hotel openings continue in Shanghai, with the focus on luxury boutique-style outlets operated by international chains.

Work on Pudong airport expansion starts

January 2016 saw work start on the terminal expansion at Pudong International Airport, which will allow for an annual capacity of 80 million passengers when completed in 2020.

All eyes on Shanghai Disneyland opening

Shanghai Disneyland will finally open to the public on 16 June 2016, and will bring a much needed unique leisure attraction for visitors to the city.