Hong Kong’s Chief Executive, John Lee, concluded a productive visit to Kuwait and Qatar on May 14, 2025, announcing significant diplomatic and economic achievements. Speaking to the media in Kuwait, Lee revealed that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will grant Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) passport holders visa-free entry for up to 30 days starting May 15, 2025. Additionally, Oman will extend its visa-free stay for HKSAR passport holders from 10 to 14 days, effective the same day. Following Qatar’s recent decision to offer 30-day visa-free access, these arrangements make the UAE the 174th country or region to provide visa-free or visa-on-arrival privileges to HKSAR passport holders, with all six Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states now offering such benefits.
Expressing gratitude for Kuwait’s warm hospitality, Lee highlighted the high-level reception, including the delegation’s stay at the Al-Yamouk Palace and a banquet hosted within its premises. As a GCC member and its current chair, Kuwait manages one of the world’s largest sovereign wealth funds, with assets exceeding US$1 trillion. During the visit, Lee met Kuwait’s Emir, Crown Prince, and Acting Prime Minister, engaging in discussions with senior officials at a roundtable. He emphasized a shared commitment to deepening bilateral trade, investment, and cultural exchanges, stating, “Both sides expressed a mutual desire to strengthen diverse cooperation.”
The visit yielded 24 cooperation memoranda and agreements with Kuwait, four of which were government-to-government, while the rest involved businesses. These agreements span trade, investment, financial services, technology, legal affairs, customs clearance, aviation, and higher education. The delegation also visited the Kuwait Direct Investment Promotion Authority, the Kuwait Investment Authority, two Kuwaiti enterprises, and met with Kuwait Chamber of Commerce members. Over the four-day trip, which included Qatar, a total of 59 agreements were signed, showcasing Hong Kong’s growing ties with the region.
Lee outlined three key objectives for the visit: strengthening government-to-government relations, exploring new cooperation areas, and expanding Hong Kong’s “circle of friends.” He deemed the trip a success, citing six achievements. First, it advanced relations with Qatar and Kuwait, fostering a consensus for collaboration. Second, the 59 agreements marked a milestone in bilateral ties. Third, Hong Kong leveraged its unique position under the “One Country, Two Systems” framework to enhance global connectivity, showcasing synergies with mainland China. Fourth, ties with GCC countries were deepened, unlocking greater business opportunities. Fifth, mutual understanding and commercial networks were strengthened. Sixth, cultural and people-to-people exchanges were promoted, supported by the new visa-free arrangements.
The visa exemptions for Qatar, the UAE, and Oman’s extended stay enhance the HKSAR passport’s global mobility, benefiting tourism, education, culture, and trade with GCC nations, all key players along the Belt and Road Initiative. Lee noted that Hong Kong’s passport enjoys high credibility, with fewer entry issues compared to others, and the government will continue pursuing visa-free access worldwide. With direct flights to Doha, Dubai, and Riyadh already in place, Lee aims to expand routes to ensure sustainable commercial viability, anticipating increased exchanges to drive economic benefits.
The Immigration Department confirmed notifications from the consulates of Qatar, the UAE, and Oman regarding the visa-free arrangements, effective May 15, 2025, except for Qatar’s earlier implementation. These measures strengthen Hong Kong’s role as a hub for GCC countries seeking access to mainland China markets. Business and Professionals Alliance legislator Jeffrey Chan, who joined the delegation, welcomed the arrangements, noting strong interest from Middle Eastern leaders in leveraging Hong Kong as a gateway to China. He believes these policies will solidify Hong Kong’s position as a platform for GCC businesses and contribute to Belt and Road development, unlocking significant opportunities in the region.