China grants visa-free entry to all GCC nations amid new ties

China has granted visa-free access to all GCC countries, expanding a policy that now includes Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, and Bahrain alongside the UAE and Qatar.

The move comes as trade between China and the Gulf bloc surpassed $288 billion in 2024 and air connectivity surged, with carriers like Emirates and Gulf Air increasing flights to meet rising demand.

Under the new waiver, effective June 9, ordinary passport holders can stay for up to 30 days for business, tourism, or family visits.

Speaking at the ASEAN-China-GCC Summit, Premier Li Qiang said negotiations on a long-delayed free trade agreement with the GCC were nearing completion.