New research by Dragon Trail International reveals rapid tourism growth driven by the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 initiatives and Approved Destination Status.
RIYADH, Saudi Arabia — July 1, 2026 — Saudi Arabia is rapidly solidifying its position as a premier destination for Chinese travellers, fueled by an expansive 91% year-on-year increase in flight connectivity and targeted “China-ready” infrastructure developments.
The rapid influx of Chinese tourists aligns with Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Vision 2030 strategy, which aims to attract 150 million annual visitors by the end of the decade. According to the Chinese Tourism to the Middle East and North Africa 2025 White Paper published by Dragon Trail International, the Kingdom has emerged as one of the fastest-growing markets for Chinese outbound travel in the region.
A major catalyst for this growth was China granting Saudi Arabia Approved Destination Status (ADS) in July 2024, allowing the Kingdom to officially host and market to Chinese tour groups. To capitalize on this status, Saudi Arabia has deployed extensive “China-ready” initiatives since 2023, including introducing Mandarin-language signage across airports, customizing hospitality products, integrating popular Chinese digital payment systems, and drastically increasing direct flights.
Data shows that flight capacity between Greater China and Saudi Arabia spiked by 91% in 2025 compared to 2024. Major carriers including Saudia, China Southern Airlines, China Eastern Airlines, Hainan Airlines, and Air China now provide direct routes connecting Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam with major Chinese hubs like Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou.
The economic impact is projected to scale significantly. According to the ATM Travel Trends Report by Tourism Economics, leisure spending by Chinese visitors in the Middle East is forecast to surge by approximately 130% between 2024 and 2030.
These insights will take center stage at the inaugural WTM Spotlight Riyadh, scheduled to run from September 8 to 10, 2026, at the Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Center (RFECC). The business-to-business event is expected to host over 300 exhibitors and draw more than 7,000 regional and international attendees to explore partnerships within the Kingdom’s shifting tourism landscape.
