- China is a key and growing market for Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector, said Al‑Shaibani.
- Chinese visitor numbers rose 48 % in 2025, he noted, highlighting further partnership opportunities.
Updated 9 min 36 sec ago
September 26, 2026 18:14
JEDDAH: A delegation from the Saudi Tourism Authority recently concluded a three‑day visit to China focused on drawing more Chinese tourists to the Kingdom and strengthening tourism‑business ties. Led by CEO Aqeel Al‑Shaibani, the group met officials and representatives of leading Chinese travel, tourism and business firms to discuss cooperation, expand distribution channels and develop tailored products and services.
The delegation showcased major Saudi destinations—including AlUla, the Red Sea coast, Amaala, Riyadh and Jeddah—alongside a year‑round calendar of international sporting, cultural and entertainment events, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Al‑Shaibani highlighted China’s importance to the sector, noting a 48 % increase in Chinese arrivals in 2025. The authority is partnering with public‑ and private‑sector entities to improve access and simplify travel for Chinese visitors.
The Tourism Authority and its partners have established a network of ten destinations equipped to welcome Chinese travelers, supported by more than 30 destination‑management companies. Collaborations span travel, technology, payments and distribution, aiming to assist visitors from planning through to arrival and stay.
The delegation also attended Saudi National Day celebrations hosted by the Kingdom’s embassy in Beijing.
In remarks at the celebration, Saudi Ambassador to China Abdulrahman Al‑Harbi praised the deepening ties between the two nations, noting significant progress across multiple sectors. He underscored the Kingdom’s commitment to strengthening relations with China and highlighted a decade of cooperation under the comprehensive strategic partnership.
China’s Assistant Foreign Minister Liu Bin also addressed the gathering, welcoming the growth of bilateral relations and expressing China’s eagerness to expand cooperation and exchanges through multilateral forums.
Ambassador Al‑Harbi described the relationship as rooted in mutual respect and shared interests. Since diplomatic ties were established in 1990, relations have steadily progressed, marking the tenth anniversary of the strategic partnership this year. He added that synergies between Saudi Vision 2030 and China’s Belt and Road Initiative have yielded concrete projects, with both sides pursuing further opportunities.