China allows Saudi Arabia and other GCC nations visa-free entry
China has formally expanded its visa-free policy to include all Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states, a significant step toward strengthening people-to-people exchanges in the area. Most Viewed: A viral story of a Hajj pilgrim's faith, fate and dedication
Saudi, Omani, Kuwaiti, and Bahraini people will be able to enter China visa-free beginning June 9, 2025, and continuing until June 8, 2026, according to the announcement by Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning on Wednesday.
The 30-day visa waiver is valid for travel for tourist, business, family, exchange, or transit purposes.
This round of visa-free travel for all GCC members is now complete. This includes Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, which have both been visa-exempt since 2018. Read: Saudi Arabia arrests 4 expats on charges of prostitution
Beijing is actively working to encourage a stronger mobility and cultural link between China and the Arab Gulf states. Mao added, "We welcome more friends from GCC countries who wish to go on a spontaneous trip to China." This campaign is part of their larger policy goal.
As part of its larger diplomatic outreach to the Middle East, China detailed ambitions to expand regional cooperation and remove travel restrictions during the ASEAN-China-GCC Summit, which led to the declaration. See Also: Why Saudi Arabia is using lavender carpet
China allows Saudi Arabia and other GCC nations visa-free entry