China extends visa exemption for Saudi citizens until end of 2026, strengthening tourism, travel ties

SAUDI ARABIA – The Chinese government has officially extended its visa exemption policy for Saudi citizens until December 31, 2026, reflecting the deepening relations between China and Saudi Arabia.

This extension allows Saudi nationals to enter China without a prior visa, subject to specific conditions set by Chinese authorities, thereby facilitating easier travel.

This move is expected to boost tourism, cultural exchange, and economic cooperation between the two nations.

Saudi travelers can now explore Chinese cities, landmarks, and heritage sites more freely, while also enhancing participation in educational, business, and cultural programs.

The visa exemption forms a key part of China’s broader diplomatic efforts to strengthen ties with strategically important countries.

It aligns with China’s goals to promote international travel, foster people-to-people connections, and expand economic partnerships amid rising global mobility.

Moreover, the policy supports Chinese ambitions of post-pandemic travel recovery, with inbound travelers exceeding 23 million in the first half of 2025, a 130% increase from the prior year.

The extension provides long-term certainty for airlines, travel agencies, and investors involved in Sino-Saudi engagement.

This initiative complements ongoing bilateral collaborations across trade, investment, and tourism sectors, reinforcing both countries’ commitment to broadening and deepening their partnership.

China and Saudi Arabia have significantly strengthened their tourism relationship, underpinned by strategic economic and cultural ties.

Bilateral tourism volumes have surged dramatically, with Saudi visitors to China increasing by over 40% annually between 2022 and 2025.

The visa exemption extension until the end of 2026 has been a key factor encouraging this growth by simplifying travel procedures.

In addition to tourism, China is a major investor in Saudi Arabia’s hospitality infrastructure under Vision 2030.

Chinese firms have contributed to mega hospitality projects such as the Riyadh Metro-linked hotel developments and luxury resorts in NEOM.

Cultural exchange initiatives regularly include joint festivals and exhibitions in both countries promoting mutual heritage and modern attractions.

Air connectivity is also expanding, with direct flights between Riyadh and Beijing increasing from once weekly to several flights per week, supported by agreements between carriers like Saudia and Air China. This facilitates easier business travel and leisure tourism.

Together, these factors illustrate a robust and growing tourism partnership between China and Saudi Arabia, complimenting broader trade and investment collaboration.

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