The Saudi Air Connectivity Programme (ACP) and China Southern Airlines have joined forces to introduce a new air route connecting Beijing to Riyadh. Scheduled to begin in April 2024, this route will offer two weekly flights between Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX) and King Khalid International Airport (RUH). Furthermore, starting in June 2024, two weekly flights will operate between Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport (SZX) and King Khalid International Airport (RUH), utilising the A330-300 aircraft.
Amid increasing demand for air travel between China and Saudi Arabia, this partnership aligns with ACP’s objectives and the broader initiatives within the Saudi ecosystem to enhance capacity and address the rising need for direct flights. This effort is further supported by the recent expansion of air routes between Saudi and Chinese airports by both China’s Hainan Airlines and the Saudi flag carrier, SAUDIA.
“We are pleased to announce the entry of China Southern Airlines, a prominent global airline, into the Saudi market with the launch of direct flights from Beijing Daxing Airport and Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport to Riyadh. The introduction of these new routes reflects our commitment to expanding direct connectivity with China. We look forward to collaborating with China Southern Airlines to provide travellers from China with greater opportunities to discover Saudi Arabia’s unique cultural treasures,” stated Majid Khan, CEO of ACP.
Alhasan Aldabbagh, President of APAC Markets at the Saudi Tourism Authority, said, ‘This collaboration marks an exciting chapter in our journey to welcome more travellers from China, inviting them to explore Saudi’s vibrant culture, rich heritage, and diverse offerings. It sets the stage for unforgettable experiences at our world-class events, embracing the legendary hospitality that defines Saudi Arabia— a warm welcome that awaits visitors throughout the year.”
Highlighting the importance of the Chinese market, Aldabbagh emphasised, “‘We aim to make China one of the top three source markets by 2030, welcoming millions of Chinese travellers to experience the true home of Arabia. Today’s announcement reaffirms our unwavering dedication to bolstering ties with China, building on the recent attainment of Approved Destination Status, the introduction of the free Stopover Visa, giving visitors the opportunity to experience a stay in Saudi for up to 96 hours when flying on SAUDIA or Flynas, and ongoing efforts to streamline visa services. China, among the 63 countries eligible for e-visas, alongside initiatives to enhance air connectivity between our nations, underscores our commitment to fostering seamless travel experiences.'”
Through Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 – a comprehensive economic diversification programme focusing on growing sectors like tourism and aviation – the Kingdom aims to become a leading aviation hub in the Middle East and a key connection point between East and West. In 2023, Saudi Arabia witnessed a record 100 million tourists, including 27 million international visitors.
Furthermore, wealthy Chinese tourists are pivotal for Saudi Arabia’s tourism strategy, particularly under Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the economy away from oil. These affluent visitors bring substantial economic benefits through their high spending on luxury accommodations, services, and cultural experiences. With China’s vast population and growing wealth, the potential for attracting high-spending tourists is significant, offering Saudi Arabia a lucrative opportunity to boost tourism revenues.
Moreover, the influx of Chinese tourists can enhance Saudi Arabia’s cultural diplomacy, showcasing its rich heritage and modern advancements to a key global audience. This not only enriches the visitor experience but also bolsters Saudi Arabia’s image as a premier tourism destination.
Strengthening tourism ties with China also aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader strategic goals, deepening diplomatic and economic relationships. Enhancing air connectivity and simplifying visa processes for Chinese travelers, such as through the free Stopover Visa and e-visa initiatives, further underscores the importance of this demographic.
The Saudi Air Connectivity Programme (ACP), under the Ministry of Tourism of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, is dedicated to improving air connectivity from unserved and underserved markets worldwide to the Kingdom.
ACP operates at the intersection of tourism and aviation, linking the stakeholder ecosystem to fulfil the National Tourism Strategy’s vision and establish Saudi Arabia as a global leader in tourism air connectivity.
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