A new visa-free entry policy for citizens of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, and Saudi Arabia has been officially implemented by China, with the intention of strengthening diplomatic and economic relations with the Gulf region. This policy will be in effect from June 9, 2025, to June 8, 2026. This is the latest addition to Beijing’s expanding list of countries that are granted unilateral visa-free access, which currently stands at 47.
This update is in addition to the visa liberalization measures that were implemented in May 2025, and it is indicative of China’s ongoing strategy to enhance global connectivity, attract tourism, and fortify partnerships, particularly with the Middle East.
What’s Included in the New Visa-Free Policy?
The trial scheme that was recently implemented:
- Regular passport holders from Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, and Saudi Arabia are eligible to travel to China without a visa.
- The visit must be for business, tourism, family visits, cultural exchange, or transit purposes.
- The utmost duration of stay for each visit is 30 days.
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Why It Matters: GCC-Wide Visa-Free Access Achieved
China has now obtained unrestricted visa-free access for all six Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations as a result of this action:
- In 2018, mutual visa waiver agreements were already in place for Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.
- Currently, visa-free travel to China is available to all GCC nations, including Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. This development serves to fortify the strategic and economic partnership between the Gulf and China.
Context: Expanding China’s Global Visa-Free Reach
This policy expansion is consistent with China’s prior 2025 commitment to facilitate easier entry for travelers from favorable nations and to promote tourism and investment in the post-pandemic era. It is anticipated that the number of countries that do not require visas will increase as China becomes more proactive in its bilateral and unilateral agreements.
What’s Next?
This gesture is anticipated to encourage reciprocal or enhanced cooperation agreements, increased tourism inflows, and broader business exchanges between China and the Middle East, according to observers. The action is also a component of China’s overarching Belt and Road diplomacy, in which Gulf nations play a critical role.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Which countries are visa-free in China 2025?
Ordinary passport holders from Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, and Bahrain will be permitted to enter China without a visa for periods of up to 30 days, including business, tourism, family visits, or transit, effective June 9, 2025. This policy will be in effect until June 8, 2026.
Why is China expanding visa-free access now?
The action is consistent with China’s objectives to improve soft diplomacy, stimulate economic development, and revive tourism in the wake of pandemic-related travel restrictions.
How long will the policy last?
The 240-hour transit visa-free policy currently in effect, and the expansion to 55 countries will be active starting on June 12, 2025. The 30-day visa-free entry is valid until December 31, 2025, and it is applicable to 38 countries.
