China is to implement a trial visa-free policy for citizens from four Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, further expanding its efforts to facilitate international travel and exchanges.

From June 9 this year to June 8, 2026, ordinary passport holders from Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, and Bahrain will be allowed to enter China without a visa for up to 30 days for purposes such as business, tourism, family visits, transit, or cultural exchanges.

This move, revealed during the ASEAN–China–GCC Summit, marks a significant step in deepening China's ties with the Gulf region.

With this decision, China will have achieved full visa exemption coverage for all six GCC member states, as the United Arab Emirates and Qatar have enjoyed mutual visa-free access with China since 2018.

"We warmly welcome more friends from GCC countries to experience the charm of China with a spontaneous journey," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said at a regular press briefing on Wednesday.

The policy is expected to boost people-to-people exchanges, tourism, and business opportunities between China and the Gulf states.