Strengthening Sino-Saudi Relations through Tourism: A Catalyst for Economic Growth and Cultural Exchange

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Saudi Arabia and China have forged a robust relationship that holds immense significance for both nations as they pursue their respective development agendas—Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 and China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

The alignment between Vision 2030 and the BRI presents opportunities to enhance bilateral connections.

One key area of focus is tourism, which serves as a vital pillar of Saudi Vision 2030.

The recent decline in Chinese tourist numbers due to the COVID-19 pandemic offers the potential for future growth as Saudi Arabia aims to attract more Chinese tourists to achieve its tourism revenue targets.

Synergies between Vision 2030 and the BRI:

The alignment of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 and China's BRI offers a promising path to strengthen ties between the two countries.

Saudi Arabia aims to diversify its economy, while China seeks to expand its global trade through the BRI.

The success of Vision 2030 is crucial for China's interests in the Middle East, as a failure to diversify the Saudi economy could lead to regional instability, undermining the BRI's objectives.

Therefore, fostering closer economic cooperation is vital for lasting peace and stability in the Arabian Peninsula, benefiting both countries.

Chinese tourism as a catalyst for economic growth:

Saudi Arabia recognizes the potential of Chinese tourism to boost its economy and reduce dependence on oil revenue.

Prior to the pandemic, China ranked as the top global source of tourists, with significant spending power.

By attracting more Chinese vacationers, Saudi Arabia aims to generate substantial tourism revenue, targeting $46 billion annually by 2030.

The diversification of the Saudi economy beyond hydrocarbons is essential, and Chinese tourism presents a tremendous market opportunity for the kingdom's tourism and entertainment industry.

Saudi Arabia's attractions for Chinese tourists:

Saudi Arabia possesses three major attractions that can entice Chinese tourists.

Firstly: 

The kingdom is home to ancient sites, such as the oasis city of al-Ula, boasting some of the world's oldest relics and monuments.

Secondly: 

Its Red Sea coast, mountains, and unique rock landscapes offer natural beauty that appeals to tourists.

Thirdly: 

As Saudi Arabia's economy diversifies, an emerging entertainment sector featuring concerts, cultural fairs, sports events, and the future Neom megacity aims to captivate visitors.

These diverse offerings provide an enticing cultural experience for Chinese tourists.

Saudi Arabia's strategic approach to Chinese tourism:

Drawing inspiration from successful national tourism strategies, such as Japan's and Australia's, Saudi Arabia has devised a comprehensive plan to attract Chinese tourists.

This includes relaxing visa policies, improving air links, upgrading travel services, leveraging traditional Chinese media and social platforms for destination promotion, and implementing advanced payment solutions.

By enhancing the tourism experience and targeting the Chinese market, Saudi Arabia aims to create job opportunities, strengthen supply chains between China and the Gulf, and boost the regional aviation industry.

Regional competition and balanced outbound Chinese tourism:

While Saudi Arabia's efforts to attract Chinese tourists offer significant potential, regional competition among Gulf states and European countries vying for the Chinese tourism market also exists.

Neighboring Oman and the UAE may intensify their incentives, travel offers, and regulations to compete with Saudi Arabia.

In the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), China's balanced approach is crucial to maintain good relations with all member states, leveraging the BRI and Global Development Initiative to avoid favoring any particular country.

Increased connectivity through rail and visa schemes can promote tourism wealth distribution across the Gulf region.

Tourism's impact on Sino-Saudi relations:

Although tourism may not be the primary focus of Sino-Saudi relations, its significance should not be underestimated.

Greater tourism flows from China to Saudi Arabia can deepen the economic transition of the kingdom, foster people-to-people exchange and understanding, and strengthen the partnership between the two nations.

The social and cultural impact of increased tourism will contribute to the broader contours of the expanding Sino-Saudi relationship.

Lastly:

As Saudi Arabia seeks to diversify its economy and China continues its global trade ambitions through the BRI, tourism emerges as a vital element that can strengthen Sino-Saudi relations.

Beyond economic benefits, tourism provides opportunities for cultural exchange, people-to-people understanding, and the promotion of a stronger partnership.

By capitalizing on the potential of Chinese tourism, Saudi Arabia can advance its Vision 2030 goals while deepening its ties with China.

(Courtesy: Al-Jazeera)