Saudi Arabia gains official tourist destination status for Chinese travellers
Starting 1 July, Saudi Arabia will officially be a designated tourist destination for tourists from China, following extensive cooperation between the Saudi and Chinese tourism sectors. The Kingdom announced the granting of the official Approved Destination Status (ADS) to China, effective from July 1, 2024. This announcement follows Saudi Arabia’s participation in the second China roadshow and ITB China in Shanghai.
This strategic move underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to becoming a key economic partner with China, unlocking new opportunities in the tourism sector, and fostering mutual understanding, friendship, and economic development for both countries.
The ADS designation is a significant milestone for group travel to Saudi Arabia. With ambitions to make China its third largest source market for international arrivals by 2030, Saudi Arabia has proactively prepared to be China-ready. Measures include significantly increasing direct flights since 2023, introducing tailored products, and forming strategic partnerships to enhance group and Flexible Independent Travel (FIT) experiences.
Ahmed Al-Khateeb, Saudi Minister of Tourism, highlighted the Kingdom’s readiness for Chinese visitors, stating, “The Saudi Tourism Authority has played a crucial role in visa facilitation, reduced fees, improving air connectivity, and ensuring destination readiness with Mandarin-language information available on www.visitsaudi.cn, Mandarin signage at airports, and Mandarin-speaking tour guides and hotel staff.”
Abdulrahman Ahmad Al-Harbi, Saudi ambassador to China, emphasised: “By strengthening bilateral ties with China, the ADS agreement opens doors for economic development across sectors, benefiting both nations.”
Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO of the Saudi Tourism Authority, remarked: “Saudi’s approval as a tourist destination for Chinese visitors reflects our continuous efforts and participation in trade shows and conferences, leading to agreements with Chinese organizations. We strive to provide a seamless, enjoyable, and safe experience for Chinese tourists, including streamlined visa procedures, increased flight capacity, and Mandarin integration across airports, destinations, tourist sites, and digital platforms like the ‘Visit Saudi’ website.”
Saudi Arabia aims to attract five million Chinese tourists by 2030, enhancing connectivity with new direct flights by Air China, China Eastern, and China Southern, in addition to existing Saudia flights. These initiatives represent a 130 percent increase in inbound seat capacity, doubling weekly flight frequency compared to a year ago.
