🤝 The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has officially been approved as a tourist destination for travelers from the People’s Republic of China, effective from July 1, 2024. This landmark decision comes after a series of productive meetings and memorandums of understanding between the Saudi and Chinese tourism sectors. The collaboration aims to attract over 5 million Chinese tourists by 2030, positioning China as the third-largest source of visitors to the Kingdom.
🔸️ Minister of Tourism, Ahmed Al-Khateeb, emphasized that all necessary preparations have been made to welcome Chinese tourists. These preparations include streamlining visa procedures, increasing flight capacities, and incorporating the Chinese language in airports and tourist sites across Saudi Arabia.
🔸️ Direct Flights: During the “ITB” exhibition in Shanghai, Saudi Airlines announced the launch of nine weekly direct flights from Riyadh and Jeddah to major cities in China. Additionally, three Chinese airlines have also introduced direct flights to Saudi cities, resulting in a remarkable 130% increase in flight capacities.
🔸️ Flight Routes:
- Beijing:
- SAUDI AIRLINES
- Air China
- China Southern Airlines
- Guangzhou:
- Saudia
- China Southern Airlines
- Shanghai:
- Saudia
- China Eastern Airlines
- Shenzhen:
- China Southern Airlines
🔸️ These measures are designed to enhance the overall experience for Chinese tourists, ensuring a seamless journey from trip planning to a safe return home.
🇨🇳 China is globally recognized as the largest source of outbound tourists, known for its high spending and frequent international travel. Saudi Arabia’s new status as an official tourist destination aims to attract a significant share of these travelers, allowing them to explore the unique cultural and natural treasures of the Kingdom.
