Saudi Arabia and China Sign Visa-Free Pact for Diplomatic Passport Holders

Saudi–China Ties Deepen with Mutual Visa Exemption Agreement

Saudi Arabia and China have taken another step towards closer strategic cooperation by signing a mutual visa exemption agreement for holders of diplomatic and official passports. The agreement was finalised during Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s official visit to Riyadh , coinciding with the 35th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations, highlighting the growing maturity of bilateral ties.

Scope of the Visa Exemption Pact
Under the agreement, diplomats and government officials from both countries will be able to travel for official purposes without requiring visas. The arrangement is limited strictly to diplomatic and official passport holders and does not apply to ordinary citizens. By reducing procedural delays, the pact is expected to facilitate smoother high-level visits, official delegations, and institutional exchanges between Riyadh and Beijing.

High-Level Engagement and Strategic Dialogue
During the visit, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan held detailed talks with Wang Yi, reviewing cooperation under the comprehensive strategic partnership framework. Key areas discussed included trade, investment, energy collaboration, and infrastructure development. Both ministers also co-chaired the fifth meeting of the Political Committee of the Saudi–Chinese High-Level Joint Committee , reflecting the structured and institutional nature of bilateral engagement.

Shared Positions on Regional and Global Issues
Saudi Arabia reiterated its support for the One China policy , affirming that Taiwan is an integral part of China. China, in turn, expressed support for Saudi Arabia’s regional diplomacy, including its efforts to promote dialogue and stability in West Asia. Both sides reaffirmed their backing for a two-state solution to the Palestinian issue , based on the 1967 borders and relevant UN resolutions.

Broadening the Partnership
China welcomed Saudi Arabia’s economic transformation under Vision 2030 , while Riyadh supported Beijing’s proposals for future China–Arab and Gulf–China summits. Saudi Arabia also confirmed China’s participation in Expo 2030, Riyadh , signalling expanding cooperation beyond diplomacy into economic and global platforms.

Exam-Focused Points

• The visa exemption applies only to diplomatic and official passport holders .

• The agreement marks 35 years of Saudi–China diplomatic relations .

• Saudi Arabia reaffirmed its support for the One China policy .

• Both countries support a two-state solution for Palestine .