19 Jan 2022 | 07:47 AM UTC
China: Winter Olympic Games to take place in Beijing and Zhangjiakou, Hebei Province, Feb. 4-20
China to host the Winter Olympic Games in Beijing and Zhangjiakou Feb. 4-20. Plan for increased security; transport disruptions likely.
Event
China will host the XXIV Olympic Winter Games (Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics) in Beijing and Zhangjiakou, Hebei Province, Feb. 4-20. Events will primarily occur in Chaoyang, Haidian, and Yanqing districts in Beijing and Chongli District in Zhangjiakou. While authorities have banned international spectators, more than 30,000 officials, journalists, and athletes from abroad are participating in the games. Due to COVID-19 concerns, officials have suspended ticket sales to the public and only invited spectators may attend. Heightened security is almost certain at Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) and other transport hubs in Beijing. Localized transport disruptions are likely near event venues.
China is enforcing strict COVID-19 measures nationwide. Officials are implementing a closed-loop system to manage the movement of Olympic athletes and personnel from arrival to departure, separating them from the public. Participants may only move between Games-related venues for training, competitions, and work.
Security
Authorities have intentionally kept security plans for the Beijing 2022 Games classified, but thousands of police officers will likely deploy in Beijing during the event. The heaviest security personnel presence is almost certain around the opening and closing ceremonies at the National Stadium, the main media hub at the National Convention Center, and competition venues in central Yanqing, Beijing, and Zhangjiakou. Tight security, including roadblocks, is almost certain at event venues, hotels, tourist attractions, and main transport routes.
Major protests are unlikely. Although there are concerns that small-scale gatherings may occur to protest China's alleged mistreatment of Uighurs in Xinjiang and other human rights abuses, authorities will almost certainly move quickly to disperse any agitators.
Transportation
Most passengers to the Games will arrive and depart PEK. Intensified identification and baggage searches are likely for passengers. Immigration and customs delays remain possible, especially on days immediately surrounding the beginning and end of the Games, but are unlikely to be significant. Security checks and associated delays are also likely main intercity train stations in the capital.
Officials could ban vehicles and other personal transport near Olympic venues. Authorities may close some lanes or roads to facilitate the movement of participants between Olympic venues, resulting in increased traffic congestion. Authorities may also temporarily halt train services or stops at subway stations near competition venues. Shuttle services from the Olympic Village and hotels hosting international participants to Olympic venues will be available.
From Jan. 22-Mar. 31, travelers to Beijing must undergo a COVID-19 nucleic test within 72 hours after arrival. Officials still require a COVID-19 test taken 48 hours before departure and a "green" code on the city's health tracking app for entry. Flights and ticket sales to Beijing from cities regarded as high- or medium-risk areas remain suspended. Individuals with a travel history in the past 14 days to high- or medium-risk areas cannot enter Beijing.
Advice
Monitor developments closely if operating in Beijing. Heed all official instructions. Always carry identification. Always be aware of your belongings, especially in crowded areas. Avoid all demonstrations as a precaution. Allow ample time for security screenings and customs at airports in Beijing. Check with airlines to confirm flight status before departing accommodations. Allow additional time for ground transport, as roads, passenger trains, and subways may be congested.
