Until recently, a Chinese visa was a real obstacle for many Gulf travelers — but that has changed dramatically. Since June 9, 2025, China has granted Saudi citizens (along with Omani, Kuwaiti, and Bahraini nationals) visa-free entry for up to 30 days for tourism, business, family visits, and transit, using an ordinary passport only. The trial was originally set to expire on June 8, 2026, but Beijing extended it through December 31, 2026, bringing Saudi Arabia in line with the UAE and Qatar, which have had visa exemptions since 2018 — completing visa-free coverage for all six GCC states. The practical takeaway: this is a renewable trial policy, so always check the Chinese Embassy in Riyadh's official site a few weeks before booking flights, since rules can shift or be extended again.
The best time to visit Beijing is mid-April through May, and mid-September through October. Skies are clear, temperatures mild (roughly 15-25°C), and the scenery is either blossoming or turning gold and red — ideal conditions for climbing the Great Wall without exhaustion. Avoid July and August, when heat and humidity make outdoor sites like the Wall and open-air temples uncomfortable, and steer clear of Chinese Spring Festival (Jan/Feb) and National Day week (around October 1), when major sites become extremely crowded.
Beijing is served by two international airports: Beijing Capital International Airport in the east and the newer, larger Beijing Daxing International Airport to the south. Confirm which one you're landing at when booking your hotel, since they're over an hour apart by car.
On budget, the median daily spend for foreign travelers in China runs ¥650-1,200 (roughly $90-165), covering hotel, meals, local transport, and admission fees. Budget travelers can manage on $70-100/day, mid-range travelers $100-200/day. Local transport is very cheap — the subway network is extensive and clean, paid via Alipay QR code — and most historical sites cost between $5 and $40, with some museums free with advance booking.
One last tip: book flights at least 45 days ahead, and Tuesday/Wednesday departures often run up to 15% cheaper than weekend flights. With this simple planning, Beijing is now more accessible and affordable for Gulf travelers than ever before.