Visa-free access granted to Middle Eastern citizens
China has extended its visa-free travel policy to nationals of four Middle Eastern nations.
Starting 9 June 2025, citizens of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman and Saudi Arabia will be eligible for visa-free entry to China for up to 30 days. This policy will remain in effect until 8 June 2026.
With this extension, all Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries now enjoy visa-free access to China, as visa exemptions for the United Arab Emirates and Qatar have been in place since 2018.
The eased entry is expected to strengthen cultural ties, boost economic exchange and promote tourism between China and the Gulf region. It also offers easier access to China’s rich cultural heritage and natural wonders – from the iconic Great Wall and Forbidden City to the stunning landscapes of the mighty Yangtze River.
China now offers 30-day visa-free entry to 47 nations, including: Andorra, Argentina, Australia, Bahrain, Belgium, Brazil, Brunei, Bulgaria, Chile, Cyprus, Croatia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Malta, Monaco, Montenegro, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Norway, Oman, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Saudi Arabia, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Switzerland, the Netherlands and Uruguay.
For more information, visit China Fast Facts or contact Asian Trails China for expert travel planning and advice.
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