Ürümqi Diwopu International Airport (URC)
Ürümqi Diwopu International Airport serves Ürümqi and the surrounding region. ~21 million (2024). Located 16 km northwest of Ürümqi city centre, it handles domestic and international flights with 3 terminals. China Southern, Hainan Airlines, Air China, China Eastern
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Terminal layout
Urumqi Diwopu International Airport has 3 terminals: T1 (older, limited domestic use), T2 (domestic flights, primarily for China Southern and Hainan Airlines), and T3 (international and long-haul flights, opened 2009). T3 is the largest and most modern. Free shuttle buses connect all terminals.3 terminals. Check your boarding pass for terminal and gate information, and allow sufficient time for transfers if connecting between flights.
Terminal info
T3 (opened 2009) cost 2.8 billion yuan and handles all international flights. T2 serves domestic routes for China Southern and Hainan Airlines. T1 is the oldest and used for limited operations. Security is heightened — allow extra time.
- Check your boarding pass for the correct terminal
- Free shuttle or walking connections between terminals
- Allow 20–30 minutes for terminal transfers
- Each terminal has check-in, security, and gates
Transfer between terminals
Free shuttle buses connect all three terminals every 10 minutes. T2 and T3 are approximately 1 km apart. Allow 15–20 minutes for inter-terminal transfers including walking and security checks.
Navigation tips
The airport is 16 km northwest of Urumqi city centre. Airport buses run to various city districts. Taxis are available at official stands outside each terminal.
- Information desks: Located in each terminal arrivals and departures hall
- Airport app: Many airports offer apps with real-time gate info
- Ask staff: Airport ambassadors wear distinctive uniforms
- Free Wi-Fi: Available for checking flight status online
Stay connected
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout all terminals. No registration required for basic access. Premium high-speed options available for purchase.
Getting to & from the airport
Transport options connecting URC to the city centre and surrounding areas. Prices and durations are approximate — check current fares before travel.
| Mode | Details | Duration | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Airport Bus | Lines 1–4 to various city districts | 30–50 min | CNY 10–15 | Multiple routes covering Urumqi |
| Taxi / Didi | Direct to city centre | 25–35 min | CNY 40–60 | Official taxi stand outside each terminal |
| Metro | Line 4 extension under construction | TBD | TBD | Expected to open 2027–2028 |
| Long-distance Bus | To other Xinjiang cities | Varies | CNY 50–200 | Ground transport centre |
Planning your journey
Rush-hour traffic can significantly extend travel times. For early morning flights, pre-book a taxi or rideshare. Public transport may have reduced service late at night — check schedules in advance.
Emergency Numbers
24/7 emergency services in China
Customs & Duty-Free
Arrival regulations for China
Mobile Connectivity
Local operators & SIM cards in China
China Unicom
Connection times
Recommended minimum connection times when transferring between flights at Ürümqi Diwopu.
Transfer tips
Allow extra time during peak periods. Follow the transfer signs and ask Airport Ambassadors if you need assistance.
Lounges
Ürümqi Diwopu has several premium lounges airside. China Southern Lounge, Business Lounge — priority pass accepted. All lounges offer comfortable seating, complimentary refreshments, and free Wi-Fi.
Passenger tips by type
Practical advice tailored to different traveller profiles passing through Ürümqi Diwopu International Airport.
First-time visitors
- Arrive at least 2 hours before domestic and 3 hours before international flights.
- Download the airline app for real-time gate and boarding updates.
- Keep your boarding pass and ID accessible — you'll need them at security and the gate.
- This airport has 3 terminals — check your boarding pass and allow 20–30 minutes for transfers.
Transit & connections
- Check if your connection requires terminal transfer — allow extra time.
- Stay airside if possible to avoid re-clearing security.
- Look for flight connection desks if your incoming flight is delayed.
Families with children
- Family lanes are usually available at security — look for signs.
- Baby changing facilities are located throughout the terminal.
- Bring snacks and entertainment for children during waits.
Business travellers
- Priority security lanes may be available with business-class tickets or elite status.
- Lounge access included with many premium tickets — check your boarding pass.
- Power outlets and USB charging are available at most gates and seating areas.
Airlines & routes
URC carriers
International destinations
- Asia: Tokyo, Seoul, Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Dubai
- Europe: London, Paris, Frankfurt, Amsterdam, Rome
- North America: New York, Los Angeles, Vancouver, Toronto
- Domestic: Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Chengdu
Frequently asked questions
For international flights, arrive at least 2–3 hours before departure. Domestic flights typically require 1–2 hours. Allow extra time during peak travel periods and holidays.
Yes, Ürümqi Diwopu International Airport offers free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal buildings. Look for the airport network on your device and connect without registration for basic access.
Ürümqi Diwopu International Airport operates 3 terminals. Check your boarding pass for terminal information. Free shuttle buses and moving walkways connect the terminals — allow at least 20–30 minutes for transfers.
Yes. China Mobile and China Unicom have counters in the international arrivals hall. A typical tourist package costs CNY 80–150 for 10–30 GB. You must show your passport to purchase. WeChat is essential for payments and transport in China.
Yes. Most Chinese airports offer free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal. You may need to authenticate via SMS (Chinese number) or use your passport at a kiosk. The connection is free and available on all floors.
Yes. Sleep capsules are available inside most major Chinese airports for CNY 60–100/hour. Lounges also offer comfortable seating for long layovers. Some airports have hourly hotels inside or near the terminal.