In just the past six months, five new direct routes have been launched between China and Saudi Arabia , transforming the latter from a once hard-to-reach destination to a new travel hub for Chinese tourists and businesspeople alike. This growing connectivity reflects a broader geopolitical and economic shift, as China’s Belt and Road Initiative aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 , encouraging mutual cooperation and investment. Today, travelers from major Chinese cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Hong Kong can fly directly to Riyadh, significantly reducing travel time and enhancing cultural and economic exchanges.
In 2019, Saudi Arabia introduced tourist visas for 49 countries, including China, marking a significant shift in the Kingdom’s traditionally restrictive policies. By opening its doors to Chinese tourists, Saudi Arabia embraced the growing demand for international travel from China, where overseas tourism has experienced explosive growth. The launch of multiple new direct flights in 2024 underscores the strategic importance of this relationship, setting the stage for sustained growth in tourism and trade.
Strategic partnerships drive new routes The acceleration of direct flights is backed by both strategic governmental agreements and ambitious tourism goals. In February 2024, Saudi Arabia’s General Authority of Civil Aviation signed a memorandum of understanding with the Civil Aviation Administration of China ( CAAC ), emphasizing bil.