From June 9, 2025, citizens of Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, and Bahrain will benefit from a new visa-free entry program to China, allowing them to stay for up to 30 days without needing a visa. This initiative is part of a trial aimed at enhancing travel business and fostering cultural ties between China and these Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. The program will remain in effect until June 8, 2026, as announced by Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning during a press briefing.

The visa exemption will apply to travelers visiting China for various purposes, including tourism, business, family visits, cultural and educational exchanges, and transit. By eliminating the visa application requirement for short-term visits, China seeks to simplify entry procedures and boost connectivity between its people and those of the GCC nations.

This new policy is part of China’s strategy to strengthen ties with the Gulf states, reflecting its commitment to enhancing bilateral cooperation. Over the last decade, relations between China and these nations have expanded, particularly in energy trade, infrastructure investment, and tourism development. The visa-free access is expected to facilitate more frequent visits from tourists, business professionals, and cultural delegations, thereby accelerating these engagements.

For the four Gulf countries, this development represents a significant opportunity to broaden international travel options and gain access to one of the world’s largest and fastest-growing economies. The simplified entry requirements will save time for Saudi Arabian, Omani, Kuwaiti, and Bahraini citizens, reducing bureaucratic barriers that can complicate cross-border travel. This convenience is anticipated to boost tourism and support business travelers looking to explore trade and investment opportunities.

Initiating this visa waiver trial unilaterally highlights China’s adaptable approach to visa diplomacy, particularly with countries it has strong strategic interests in. The trial period will allow Chinese authorities to assess the program’s effectiveness, security, and immigration control measures, as well as its impact on travel volumes. Authorities will review the results to determine whether to extend or adjust the policy and potentially include other nations in the future.

Historically, China has enforced strict visa policies for many countries due to concerns about immigration and security. However, in recent years, the country has begun to relax certain visa requirements to attract international tourists and promote economic cooperation. This new visa-free trial is part of a broader effort to facilitate travel and enhance global connectivity, aligning with initiatives like the Belt and Road.

In addition to economic opportunities, the visa-free entry program aims to foster cultural understanding and exchanges between China and the GCC states. The Gulf countries have vibrant expatriate communities and growing interests in educational and cultural partnerships with China. Easing access for short visits will support student mobility programs, artistic collaborations, and people-to-people exchanges that enrich mutual appreciation.

The trial will cover various entry points across China, allowing travelers from Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, and Bahrain to select from multiple airports, seaports, and land crossings designated for visa-free access. Travelers will still need to meet China’s standard entry requirements, including holding a valid passport and demonstrating the purpose of their visit. The 30-day stay limit is consistent with similar policies China has offered to other friendly nations, ensuring uniformity in immigration management.

As the policy is implemented in mid-2025, Chinese and Gulf tourism authorities are expected to launch promotional campaigns to highlight the benefits of the visa-free scheme. Travel agencies, airlines, and business chambers from both regions will likely collaborate to raise awareness among potential travelers and facilitate travel arrangements. This partnership will be crucial for maximizing the positive impact on tourism and commercial exchanges.

Overall, China’s introduction of a one-year trial visa exemption for citizens of Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, and Bahrain represents a significant step towards strengthening bilateral relations with the Gulf region. By easing travel restrictions for short-term visits, China aims to enhance tourism, business, and cultural ties, while also improving people-to-people connections. The success of this trial will influence future visa policies and may lead to broader travel facilitation with other strategic partners globally.