 |
| Image Credit: Google |
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)
0 Comments