China’s Post-Covid Travel Boom Brings Tourists Flocking to the Middle East
When Ian Sun decided to travel again after the Covid-19 pandemic, he changed his plans and opted to visit Egypt instead of Europe. Despite dreaming of exploring Europe for three years during the pandemic, the cheaper airfare to Egypt convinced the 30-year-old manager to switch destinations. His trip to Egypt opened his eyes to the rich history and friendly people of the country, changing his perception of Arab countries. Now, Ian has set his sights on Iran as his next travel destination in the Middle East.
Ian is just one of many Chinese travelers who are now heading to the Middle East and North Africa in a post-pandemic travel boom. Top destinations include the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia, and Egypt, with Qatar, Morocco, and Iran also attracting visitors. Bookings to key Middle Eastern destinations have seen triple-digit growth in the first three months of this year compared to last year, according to Trip.com Group, China’s largest online travel agency.
The Middle East’s appeal to Chinese tourists can be attributed to affordable airfares and simple visa requirements. The close ties between China and Middle Eastern countries have also contributed to the region’s popularity among Chinese travelers. Kyle Sun, a 25-year-old bank clerk from Beijing, visited Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the UAE during the recent Chinese national holiday. He was drawn to the Middle East by lower costs compared to European destinations.
The resumption of flights between China and the Middle East after the pandemic has helped keep airfare prices down. Weekly flights have exceeded pre-pandemic levels, with Egypt and Saudi Arabia doubling the number of flights to China from 2019 levels. This increase in flights is a result of the closer ties established through the Belt and Road Initiative.
The Middle East’s visa-free travel or landing visas for Chinese citizens have also played a significant role in attracting tourists. Countries like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Morocco, Egypt, Iran, and Tunisia offer such conveniences, making it easier for Chinese travelers like Kyle to choose these destinations for their trips. The Middle East’s growing appeal to Chinese tourists is also influenced by strained relations between China and Western countries, leading some travelers to seek alternative destinations.
While the Middle East is currently leading in attracting Chinese tourists post-pandemic, Western countries are also seeing a surge in outbound bookings from Chinese travelers. However, experts predict that Chinese tourism to the Middle East will continue to grow as cooperation between the two regions deepens.
Despite potential conflicts in the region, the Middle East remains an attractive destination for Chinese tourists seeking new cultural experiences. As more Chinese travelers look to explore diverse and captivating destinations, the Middle East is expected to remain a popular choice for those looking for a unique travel experience.