A business traveller’s guide to Urumqi, China

Over the centuries, Urumqi has developed into a major international business hub – from its historic position on the ancient Silk Road to today’s Silk Road Economic Belt. With luxury international hotels and a high-tech transport network, Urumqi showcases the splendour of modern development while embracing its ancient roots. It’s also a place of cultural wonder and spectacular natural landscapes – from its grand bazaars and innovative architecture to the immense Tian Shan mountain range nearby.

Where to start

Urumqi’s convention and exhibition area, located in the Shuimogou district, is also the city’s core commercial centre. Here, you’ll find the Xinjiang International Convention and Exhibition Center – a landmark space that hosted the China-Eurasia Expo in 2024 – and the architecturally impressive Urumqi Cultural Center – home to a theatre, concert hall, museum and a tower shaped like a blooming lotus flower. The Hongguangshan Scenic Resort, Urumqi Olympic Sports Center and Urumqi Cultural Park are all nearby, making this an especially vibrant hub of shops, hotels and offices.

To get around, you can rent a car, use the rideshare app DiDi (which you can learn more about in our guide to travelling around China) or jump on the metro – Line 1 runs north-south from the airport.  

Due to the time difference, locals typically begin work at 10 am; the pace is more relaxed compared to eastern cities, so allow some flexibility when it comes to planning business meetings.

What to know

Urumqi is a multicultural city with a diverse blend of cultures that spans China to south and central Asia. As such, there are many unique customs. When meeting a local, a smile or a handshake is appropriate. When dining, respect specific dietary habits by choosing halal restaurants. And when offering someone a gift, consider their cultural and religious beliefs. 

Where to take clients

For a true taste of Xinjiang’s distinct cuisine, the classic fusion restaurant Silk Road’s Promise on Beijing Middle Road comes recommended – the crayfish baked buns and Kazakh speciality Baursak are must-try delicacies. Located on Longsheng Street, Lovely Xinjiang Happy Food Market is known for its warm atmosphere and live performances, making it the perfect spot for a fun business dinner. The tandoori mutton and pigeon stir-mixed noodles are signature dishes that showcase the unique local flavours.

During the day, head to Livant Coffee on Xinhua South Road for tea or coffee in an elegant, vintage setting. For business meetings in a more tranquil and refined environment, Skye bar at the Conrad Urumqi is the place to go for afternoon tea or evening cocktails. From up here, the city’s stunning nightscape is hard to miss.

Where to stay

Among Urumqi’s many five-star international hotels, the Conrad Urumqi on Youhao North Road is conveniently located, with rooms boasting beautiful views of nearby Bogda Peak. Cultural attractions including the Xinjiang Museum and the Xinjiang Art Museum are within easy walking distance. Other luxury hotels include Wanda Vista Urumqi, a short distance from Urumqi train station; the Hilton Urumqi; Four Points by Sheraton Urumqi in the Olympic Sports Centre area; and the Universal Hotel on Beijing South Road – all of which have fitness centres and swimming pools, ideal for unwinding after a long day.

What to say

Xinjiang residents are known for their warm and outgoing nature. Starting a conversation about cuisine is a fail-safe option – and might afford you a few extra tips when it comes to local restaurants. Avoid politics or religion: when in doubt, start a conversation about family for the surest way to win hearts.

Downtime done right

For nature enthusiasts, a 30-mile drive out of the city takes you to the Tianshan Tianchi Scenic Area where you’ll find lakes, snow-capped mountains and forests. Back in the city, urban explorers can walk from the South Gate to the diverse southern part of Urumqi where you can enjoy cultural events at the Xinjiang People's Theatre, or explore the former Xinjiang Provincial Bank – a protected heritage building. You can also check out the traders at the Erdaoqiao Market, or visit the bustling Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar in Tianshan District to experience the full fusion of Asian and Western culture and commerce. For those with a penchant for contemporary art, a trip to Gaotai Gallery is essential.

Take something home 

Of course, it’s hard to leave anywhere empty-handed – especially Urumqi. Tianshan Vanke Plaza is where you’ll find a number of speciality shops offering local handicrafts, including Xinjiang's famous Atlas silk. Xinjiang's distinctive dried fruits and naan also make for popular gifts, which can be found at the Hongshan Farmer’s Market near Hongshan Park.

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