Frequently Asked Questions

About us

What is Oriental Culture Travel?

Oriental Culture Travel is a Dubai-based company that designs private, tailor-made trips to China for travellers from the Gulf, Europe and the Americas. We work in English and Arabic.

Do you run group tours?

No. Every trip is private: your family or group has its own car, driver and licensed guide, and the route is designed around you.

Who operates the tours in China?

We design and coordinate each journey. Tours inside China are operated by licensed partner travel agencies.

Muslim travellers

Can I have an Arabic-speaking guide in China?

Yes. We arrange Arabic-speaking guides, and our team answers in Arabic on WhatsApp.

Can you arrange halal food in China?

Yes. Halal meals are arranged on request in every destination. In cities like Xi'an, Beijing and Guangzhou there are many halal restaurants; in nature destinations we arrange halal meals in advance. See our halal food guide.

Can we keep prayer times during the trip?

Yes. Your guide plans each day around prayer times and can include mosque visits in most cities.

Planning and booking

Do I need a visa for China?

Many passports, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the UK and most of Europe, can currently visit China visa-free for up to 30 days. See our visa guide and check official sources before booking.

Which destinations do you cover?

Beijing, Shanghai, Xi'an, Hangzhou, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Chongqing, Guilin, Zhangjiajie and Yunnan.

How do I get a quote?

Send us your dates, group size and interests on WhatsApp at +971 50 465 8408 or through our website. You receive a tailor-made plan and a free quote within 24 hours.

How does payment work?

There is no deposit. You pay 80% when you arrive in China and the remaining 20% when your trip ends. Cancelling before you arrive is free. See our service and payment terms.

Can I end my trip early?

Yes, at any time. We refund the days you don't use, less a small 20% fee on those days only. If the reason is on our side, there is no fee at all. See our service and payment terms.

What does a trip include?

Airport pick-up and drop-off, a private car and driver (you choose the vehicle), hotels from our hand-picked list, licensed multilingual guides, meals arranged by us or on your own, 24/7 support on WhatsApp, a local gift for every traveller and free photography during the trip.

Is a private China trip suitable for families and older travellers?

Yes. With a private car and a flexible schedule, we set the pace for children and older travellers, and choose hotels and activities to match.

How do I pay for things in China?

Most payments in China are made with Alipay or WeChat Pay, which accept foreign Visa and Mastercard cards. See our payment guide.

← All travel guides