Chinese outbound tourism is steadily rebounding and is expected to reach approximately 80% of pre-pandemic levels by the end of 2025. Research by Dragon Trail International suggests this trend, with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism reporting 3.6 million outbound trips during the Chinese New Year period, 57% of 2019 levels. The UAE, Thailand, and Malaysia are emerging as popular destinations for Chinese travelers, with the UAE’s visa-free policy and strong flight connections contributing to its appeal. Chinese actress Liu Yifei was appointed tourism ambassador for Abu Dhabi, further showcasing the destination to Chinese travelers.
Data from online travel agencies such as Mafengwo, Qunar, and Fliggy show an increasing demand for destinations like the UAE, Egypt, and Morocco. These countries offer visa-free entry or visas on arrival for Chinese citizens, leading to a significant increase in outbound orders. Research by Oxford Economics suggests that outbound travel from China will nearly double in 2024, with the Middle East expected to lead the global recovery in Chinese inbound tourism. Chinese arrivals to the Middle East have already surpassed 2019 levels, with Cairo experiencing a notable increase in arrivals. The Arabian Travel Market in Dubai anticipates a strong presence from Chinese exhibitors and travel professionals.
Visa relaxation in countries like Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand has also contributed to increased Chinese tourist arrivals. Cook from Dragon Trail notes that 2024 was the first Chinese New Year celebrated without pandemic-related restrictions on outbound travel, leading to increased international travel during the holiday period. Thailand saw over 1 million international tourists during the recent Chinese New Year, with increased spending by Chinese tourists. Singapore and Malaysia also experienced a surge in travel bookings following the implementation of visa-free policies, with significant growth in Chinese arrivals reported by ForwardKeys.
While outbound trips during the new year period were lower than 2019 levels, domestic trips in China have surpassed pre-pandemic levels. The upcoming Labor Day holiday and the summer travel season are expected to further drive Chinese outbound tourism, with summer being the most popular time for international travel. Tongcheng anticipates a boost in Chinese outbound tourism during these holidays. Overall, Chinese outbound tourism is on the path to recovery, with projections indicating a return to pre-pandemic levels by the end of 2025. The relaxation of visa requirements in various countries is also contributing to increased Chinese tourist arrivals, with the Middle East expected to lead the global recovery in Chinese inbound tourism.
