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“It’s amazing! All my friends are messaging me saying they can’t believe this is real!” said Bahraini influencer Zahra Bakr, beaming with excitement at a tourism promotion event in Manama, the capital of Bahrain. In daily life, she runs an event management company and frequently travels abroad for work. Online, she’s a lifestyle blogger with hundreds of thousands of followers. “I used to prepare visa documents every time I traveled to China. Now, all I need is a passport and a ticket—it’s truly unbelievable!” What has sparked the enthusiastic comments from Gulf netizens? Policy implemented: One passport is all you need for a spontaneous trip to China What thrilled Zahra and her friends was China’s recent major visa-free policy: from June 9, 2025 to June 8, 2026, ordinary passport holders from Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, and Bahrain can enter China without a visa for business, tourism, family visits, exchanges, or transit, for stays not exceeding 30 days. Alongside the UAE and Qatar, which have had reciprocal visa exemption agreements with China since 2018, this marks full visa-free coverage for all member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). This means that whether it’s a Saudi entrepreneur looking for new partners in Yiwu, an Omani backpacker planning to visit the Yellow Mountains or the Great Wall, or a Kuwaiti family wanting their children to meet pandas — all they need is a passport to embark on a spontaneous trip to China. Statistics reflect the breadth and depth of this policy: with the addition of these four countries, the number of countries eligible for China’s unilateral visa-free policy has reached 47, forming an open network that covers major global economic and cultural zones. At a regular press briefing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian emphasized the significance of this move, stating, “The growing visa-free list demonstrates China’s unwavering commitment to advancing high-level opening-up. The continuous improvement of travel facilitation measures shows China’s determination to build an open world economy through concrete action.” Looking ahead, China will embrace “wider opening-up and deeper cooperation to share prosperity with the world.” This is not just a policy shift — it is a powerful signal of China’s openness to the world. The Gulf Is “Boiling with Excitement”: From Official Praise to Public Anticipation China’s Visa-Free Policy Headlines Across Gulf Country Social Media Once announced, the policy quickly sparked a wave of enthusiasm across many Gulf countries. The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs immediately posted on the social platform “X” stating that this move “will encourage mutual visits between the peoples of the two countries and deepen their friendship.” Mainstream media in Kuwait and Oman promptly reported this major favorable policy, swiftly conveying the good news of easier travel to their citizens. Bahrain’s Minister of Tourism, Fatima, openly said in an interview, “The people of Bahrain have long desired to travel to China, and the implementation of the visa-free policy will further encourage Bahrainis to visit China; we also hope Chinese tourists will come to Bahrain to see and experience our rich tourism offerings.” Her words were full of anticipation for deeper future exchanges in both directions. The market response was direct and rapid. Data shows that on the first day after the policy was announced, searches for flights from GCC countries to China surged by 90% month-on-month, with Saudi tourists leading in search popularity, demonstrating the public’s eager anticipation for travel to China. Market Response: Competing to Seize the Momentum of the “China Fever” Faced with such overwhelming demand, the aviation and tourism markets quickly responded with keen sensitivity. The aviation industry took the lead. On June 28, Hainan Airlines announced a new direct flight route from Haikou to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, while Emirates Airlines began operating daily direct flights from Dubai to Shenzhen starting July. These new flights will undoubtedly significantly reduce travel time and costs, giving wings to tourism and business exchanges between the two countries. Tourism service providers were equally quick to act. On the day the visa-free policy was announced, Kanoo Travel, one of the largest travel groups in the Gulf, launched four new “China tours” targeting residents of the UAE, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and other countries, promoting a variety of customized itineraries. Its CEO stated that the visa exemption has created new possibilities for cultural and business cooperation between China and the Arab world. Video | The “Hello! China” Tourism Promotion Event Went Viral On-site in Bahrain Offline promotions were equally vibrant. From June 20 to 22, the Chinese Embassy in Bahrain, together with the China Cultural Center in the UAE, held a “Hello! China” tourism promotion event at Bahrain’s largest shopping mall. Lion dance performances and tea ceremonies attracted large crowds. At the consultation desks, many visitors eagerly took notes and excitedly discussed whether to visit Beijing or Chengdu first. As one attendee remarked, “Visa-free access has turned the dream of traveling to China into a ‘go whenever you want’ reality.” Tracing the Popularity: The Dual Drivers of Collaborative Foundations and Cultural Appeal In fact, even before the policy was officially implemented, economic, trade, and energy cooperation between China and the GCC countries had been steadily intensifying. As one of the largest trading partners of the GCC, the bilateral trade volume between China and the Gulf reached 288.09 billion USD in 2024. In addition, China is the largest oil importer of the Gulf countries and an increasingly preferred market for many Gulf enterprises going global. Posts about their “China trip” shared by UAE influencers have received a large number of likes. Beyond strong economic ties, China’s cultural appeal is also significant. Since China began implementing unilateral visa-free policies at the end of 2023, “traveling in China” has rapidly become a trending topic on overseas social media, with countless travelers sharing their unique experiences in China. From majestic natural landscapes and splendid historical and cultural landmarks to the vibrancy of modern cities, China’s unique charm is attracting more and more international visitors. During the announcement of the visa-free policy for

To further strengthen China-Arab cultural ties and deepen film industry cooperation, the highly anticipated Chinese animated film Nezha: The Devil Boy in the Sea (shortened as Nezha 2) will officially premiere across major cinemas in the UAE starting July 17, 2025. The film is specially released in two language versions: The two versions will be released simultaneously to meet the diverse viewing needs of local UAE audiences, overseas Chinese communities, and expatriates from various countries living in the UAE. Ne Zha: The Devil Boy Roars in the Sea is another masterpiece of original Chinese animation, crafted by a top creative team. It continues the worldview and character development of Ne Zha: Birth of the Demon Child, while delivering a full upgrade in visual effects, storytelling, and cultural depth. Since its release in early 2025 in China, the film has achieved impressive box office results and wide acclaim. It has been hailed as “a youthful expression of Chinese culture” and “a contemporary interpretation of Chinese-style heroism.” Ne Zha 2 is jointly distributed in the Middle East by PBA Entertainment and Saudi Arabia’s CineWaves, with strong support from the Chinese Embassy in the UAE, the Consulate General in Dubai, the China Cultural Center in the UAE, the UAE Media Council, and numerous mainstream Chinese and Arab media outlets. The film will be simultaneously screened in major cinemas across several Emirates, including Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Sharjah. It marks a new chapter in the friendship between China and the Arab world and encourages more Emirati audiences to visit and explore China. The premiere of the film is scheduled to take place in Dubai on July 15. Representatives from the Chinese Embassy in the UAE, the Consulate General in Dubai, local cultural institutions in the UAE, Chinese-funded enterprises, mainstream media, and distinguished guests from various sectors will be invited to attend. The event will mark a significant moment as Chinese culture debuts on mainstream cinema screens in the Middle East. The China Cultural Center in the UAE will also host a “Hello, China” tourism promotion on-site. We sincerely invite our friends in the UAE, Chinese enterprises, overseas Chinese communities, and film enthusiasts to visit the cinemas and enjoy this Eastern hero story that blends tradition and modernity, experiencing the unique charm of Chinese animation.

Dubai International Airport is located approximately 10 km northeast of central Dubai. It is the largest aviation hub in the Middle East, serving flights to over 100 countries and regions worldwide. In 2024, the airport handled more than 90 million passengers, making it one of the busiest airports globally. The airport has three terminals—T1, T2, and T3—serving different airlines. Terminal 3 (divided into Concourses A, B, and C) is primarily used by Emirates. Terminal 2 serves flydubai and some Middle Eastern/South Asian carriers. Terminal 1 handles other international airlines such as Air China, China Southern, China Eastern, Sichuan Airlines, and Hainan Airlines. Transfers between terminals are done via airport shuttle buses and may take a long time; passengers and their luggage are subject to security checks. Each terminal includes duty-free shops, lounges, restaurants, medical stations, and airport police offices. Terminal 3 also has an in-airport hotel. For more details, visit www.dubaiairports.ae. Chinese citizens transiting through Dubai International Airport to return to China or proceed to a third country should allow ample time. Additionally, check in advance whether your luggage is tagged to the final destination. If not, you may need to enter the country to retrieve it and recheck it. If entry is inconvenient, paid services are available at airport transfer counters. Chinese nationals arriving in Dubai by land or sea can take the metro, public bus, or taxi to the airport for return flights. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least three hours before departure. Currently, Dubai International Airport operates over 130 weekly flights to major cities in China. Airlines serving these routes include Air China, China Southern Airlines, China Eastern Airlines, Sichuan Airlines, Hainan Airlines, Cathay Pacific, and Emirates. Destinations are as follows: Due to escalating tensions in the Middle East, travelers are advised to stay updated on regional developments and flight schedules, plan trips prudently, and stay safe. The Chinese Consulate General in Dubai is ready to assist Chinese citizens transiting through Dubai, either returning home or heading to a third country. Contact details: Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in DubaiJune 25, 2025

From June 20 to 22, 2025, the Chinese Embassy in Bahrain and the China Cultural Center in the UAE jointly held a “Hello! China” pop-up tourism roadshow at City Center, one of the largest shopping malls in Manama, the capital of Bahrain. The opening ceremony was attended by Chinese Ambassador to Bahrain Ni Ruchi, Bahraini Minister of Tourism Fatima, President of the Bahrain-China Friendship Association Khawaja, and CEO of Gulf Air Jeffrey. Representatives from hotel groups and travel agencies in Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Dubai, along with Gulf Air staff, introduced Chinese inbound travel packages, visa-free policies, payment and tax refund conveniences. They collected feedback and contact information, distributed brochures and souvenirs, while a large screen played “Hello! China” tourism videos in a continuous loop. Local Chinese culture enthusiasts showcased lion dances, traditional dances, tea ceremonies, and kung fu fan performances, attracting many visitors to the booth. Two lucky attendees even won round-trip “Journey to China” flight tickets sponsored by Gulf Air. Bahraini influencer Zahra said the visa-free policy China introduced for Bahrainis has thrilled the public, and many are eager to visit China. Today’s event came at the perfect time. Minister Fatima emphasized that China is an important source market for Bahrain, and the government values tourism cooperation with China. Many Bahrainis are enthusiastic about traveling to China, and today’s event is a key step in informing the public about destinations and new facilitation measures. This pop-up event marked the first time the China Cultural Center in the UAE entered Bahrain. It aimed to implement President Xi Jinping’s 2024 initiative to achieve 10 million China-Arab tourist visits in five years, and to align with the recent visa-free policy announcements for GCC countries at the China-ASEAN-GCC Summit, enhancing inbound tourism promotion across the Gulf. The event was covered by Bahrain TV and CGTN Arabic.

To further promote people-to-people exchanges between China and the world, China continues to expand its list of visa-exempt countries. On June 10, Shanghai Airport Immigration Inspection Station revealed that over 100 ordinary passport holders from Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, and Bahrain entered China visa-free via Pudong International Airport on June 9 and 10. Immigration officers processing entry for visa-free foreign travelers From June 9, 2025 to June 8, 2026, China is implementing a trial visa exemption policy for ordinary passport holders from Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, and Bahrain. Eligible travelers can visit China for business, tourism, family visits, exchanges, or transit for up to 30 days without a visa. Just after midnight on June 9, Pudong International Airport welcomed the first batch of inbound travelers under the new policy. “The visa-free policy is very convenient and the entry process was smooth,” said Kuwaiti traveler Mr. Arya, who arrived on flight 9C8892 from Bangkok to Pudong. He and his brother were among the first to benefit from the new policy. “We learned about the policy online and decided to travel to Shanghai as a family. Our father will join us in a few days—we’re looking forward to this trip to China,” he said after clearing immigration. Another beneficiary of the policy was Mr. Adaris from Saudi Arabia, who is visiting China for the first time. He plans to visit an automation equipment company in Shanghai. “The visa-free policy saved me time. It will make future business visits much more convenient,” he said. “Currently, citizens from 47 countries are eligible for China’s unilateral visa-free policy. As this network expands, inbound travel enthusiasm remains high. Since the beginning of this year, over 1.1 million foreign travelers have entered China via Pudong Airport using the visa-free policy—accounting for half of all foreign entries,” said Jiang Yichen, Deputy Director of Border Inspection at the Shanghai Airport Immigration Station. As the benefits of the visa-free policy continue to unfold, the number of inbound foreign travelers is expected to rise. The Shanghai Airport Immigration Station will closely monitor flight patterns, enhance coordination with airlines and port authorities, and further optimize the border clearance process to ensure a warm and efficient experience—positioning Shanghai as the “No.1 Gateway for Inbound Tourism in China.”

According to Xinhua News Agency, starting from June 9, China has implemented a trial unilateral visa-free policy for ordinary passport holders from Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, and Bahrain. This brings the number of countries eligible for China’s unilateral visa exemption to 47. Data from travel platforms shows that on the day the policy was announced, flight searches to China from GCC countries increased by 90%, with Saudi tourists showing the highest level of interest. According to Guangzhou-based inbound tourism agencies, visitors from Saudi Arabia and other Middle Eastern countries enjoy flying to Guangzhou to go shopping, buy local specialties, sample Chinese cuisine, and experience traditional Chinese medicine. Airline sources also revealed that Guangzhou, as a major transportation and commercial hub in China, is widely known in the Middle East. Many foreign guests choose to travel to Guangzhou for business and to enjoy the city’s unique lifestyle. Saudi Arabia Sees 235% Surge in Inbound Travel Orders in Q1; Guangzhou Tourism Products Now Available in the Middle East From June 9, 2025 to June 8, 2026, citizens of Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, and Bahrain holding ordinary passports can enter China without a visa for business, tourism, visiting relatives and friends, cultural exchange, or transit, for stays of up to 30 days. With the addition of the UAE and Qatar—both of which have enjoyed full mutual visa exemption with China since 2018—China has now achieved complete visa-free coverage for all GCC countries. According to Trip.com data, flight searches to China from GCC countries surged by 90% on the day the policy was announced, with Saudi travelers showing the greatest interest. In the first quarter of this year, inbound tourism bookings on Trip.com doubled year-on-year, while bookings from Saudi Arabia rose by an impressive 235%. “The visa-free policy removes the ‘last mile’ barrier to travel,” said Qin Jing, Vice President of Trip.com Group. “As China continues to ease visa requirements, it will provide direct convenience for overseas visitors conducting business and also stimulate diverse consumption in tourism, culture, and other areas.” As the list of visa-free countries continues to grow, demand from Middle Eastern business and leisure travelers to Guangdong is also on the rise. In response to local preferences and cultural characteristics, GZL International Travel Service has developed targeted tourism products, accompanied by promotional videos and images of Guangdong for regional marketing. According to Xi Xinqiang, Deputy General Manager of the GZL inbound tourism department, local partners in the Middle East have already launched Guangdong travel products, with departures starting in early July. The offerings have attracted considerable attention, especially from Saudi Arabia and Bahrain. “Buy and Refund Instantly” Policy Rolled Out Swiftly – Foreign Tourists Love Shopping in Guangzhou Boosted by new policies, inbound tourism in Guangzhou has shown a “multiplier effect.” In the first quarter of 2025, Guangzhou received 1.187 million inbound overnight tourists, an 11.7% year-on-year increase. Among them, 498,000 were foreign visitors staying overnight, representing a 31.0% increase. Recently, the “buy and refund instantly” departure tax rebate policy has been rapidly implemented in Guangzhou. The layout of tax refund shops has been further optimized, product categories have been expanded, and foreign tourist spending in the city has been significantly stimulated. Industry professionals are optimistic about the “buy and refund instantly” policy. “Inbound tourism is on the rise, and more overseas travel service agencies are visiting the Greater Bay Area for familiarization trips,” said Mr. Peng, Head of Marketing at Guangdong CTS. He noted that foreign tourists enjoy shopping in Guangzhou, especially at various wholesale markets. He also suggested that local merchants should expand their product categories to include more intangible cultural heritage handicrafts and Cantonese cultural and creative products. Foreign Airlines Optimistic About Guangzhou, Plan to Increase Capacity Accordingly According to multiple online travel platforms, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Bahrain have all launched direct flights to Guangzhou. Among them, Saudia (Saudi Arabian Airlines) operates six direct flights weekly between Guangzhou and Riyadh and Jeddah. The flight occupancy rate shows healthy seasonal fluctuations and remains stable overall. In addition, Saudia also operates four weekly flights connecting Beijing with Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam, an economic hub in eastern Saudi Arabia, providing a convenient air bridge for the deepening economic and cultural exchanges between the two countries. “Following the announcement of China’s unilateral visa-free policy for Saudi ordinary passport holders, the market has already shown positive initial feedback. We are observing a clear trend of potential passenger growth. With continued publicity, this upward momentum is expected to be further consolidated and expanded,” said Ms. Liang, Sales Director of Saudia. She noted that this policy move will significantly inspire Middle Eastern travelers to explore Guangzhou—the “millennia-old trade city.” According to her, Saudi guests, in addition to their busy business agendas, show great interest in Guangzhou’s vibrant urban charm, including premium shopping experiences, authentic culinary culture, historic cultural sites, and traditional Chinese medicine wellness. To seize this market opportunity, Saudia is fully prepared and plans to increase flight frequency in the upcoming winter-spring season, especially during major trade events like the Canton Fair.

On June 9, China’s visa-free trial policy officially took effect for ordinary passport holders from Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, and Bahrain. Combined with full mutual visa exemption for the UAE and Qatar since 2018, this now grants visa-free entry to all GCC member states. Individuals across the GCC stated that this policy will promote travel and exchanges with China and create a brighter future for China–GCC relations. Recently, China decided to expand its visa-free policy. From June 9, 2025, to June 8, 2026, ordinary passport holders from Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, and Bahrain may enter China visa-free for up to 30 days for business, tourism, visiting relatives, cultural exchange, or transit. Aied Al-Yami, Director of International Affairs at the Saudi Ministry of Investment, shared the news immediately on social media, saying: “Spontaneous trips to China are exciting. I’m pleased to see China–Saudi relations growing closer, and cultural and people-to-people exchanges becoming more convenient.” Ishaq Al-Azri, Professor of Chinese at Sultan Qaboos University, Oman, said that the Omani people generally welcome the policy, and the number of Omani entrepreneurs traveling to China for business will increase markedly. Cooperation in tourism will be upgraded, and Omani tourists look forward to discovering China’s rich history and vibrant culture. Charbel Barakat, Director of the International Section at Kuwait’s Al‑Jarida Newspaper, said this visa-free policy will ease GCC citizens’ travel and business activities in China, and facilitate collaboration between GCC research institutes and Chinese universities, promoting mutual learning in humanities and other fields. Jawad Al-Hawaj, President of the Bahrain–China Friendship Association, said the visa-free policy provides an opportunity to deepen friendly cooperation: “The Bahrain–China Friendship Association will seize this opportunity to enhance people-to-people exchanges.” Bahraini economist Youshim Hussein said the visa waiver is an important move by China to strengthen cooperation with the GCC, and will powerfully promote mutual understanding and cultural exchange between the people of both sides. Emirati travel blogger Abdullah Matar, currently visiting China on the “Hello! China” UAE Influencer Tour organized by the Chinese Embassy in the UAE and the China Cultural Center, said on social media that the visa-free policy “is a major benefit for tourists from GCC countries, including the UAE. Now you just need your passport to visit China.” One of the Gulf’s largest travel companies, Emirates Kanoo Travel Group, launched four new China itinerary packages aimed at UAE, Bahrain, Saudi, and other GCC travelers. Kanoo CEO Harvi said, “The visa-free policy creates new possibilities for deepening cooperation. We will continue serving as a bridge to facilitate travel between GCC countries and China.” Jassim Mahmoud, Public Relations Head at Qatar Tourism, said they look forward to deepening tourism cooperation with more partners and promoting further growth in the Qatar–China tourism market. Professor Kyle Dibatt of Qatar University’s School of International Relations stated that the full visa waiver reflects China’s intention to deepen cooperation with GCC countries. Achieving visa-free coverage across the GCC will further propel bilateral relations, enhance people-to-people ties, and support the building of a shared future for humanity. Source: People’s Daily, June 9, 2025, Page 3