The Saudi Tourism Authority concluded an official trade mission to China held from September 21 to 24, 2026. Led by CEO Ageel Alshaibani, the delegation met with Chinese travel and digital platform executives to expand commercial partnerships. STA highlighted that Chinese visits to Saudi Arabia increased by 48% in 2025.
The Saudi Tourism Authority concluded a four-day promotional mission across China aimed at expanding commercial partnerships and attracting Chinese travelers. Tourism officials reported a 48 percent increase in Chinese visitors to Saudi Arabia in 2025. The initiative highlighted key Saudi destinations alongside dedicated Chinese payment and digital platform integrations.
Chinese autonomous vehicle developers are expanding commercial operations in Dubai to align with the emirate's goal of making 25 percent of transport trips driverless by 2030. Baidu's Apollo Go launched commercial services in March, WeRide has deployed over 200 vehicles in the region, and Pony.ai plans to begin commercial robotaxi services later this year.
The Saudi Tourism Authority has increased initiatives to draw visitors from mainland China and Hong Kong to the Kingdom. The push forms part of Saudi Arabia's plan to direct over $800 billion into its tourism sector to diversify its economy away from hydrocarbons. Officials from both sides confirmed commitments to expand cooperation, direct travel links, and trade missions.
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