Murray will meet with Riyadh Gov. Prince Salman, Foreign Minister Prince Saud Al-Faisal, Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council Abdul Latif Al-Zayani and other officials.

"The visit underscores the close and friendly ties binding the two countries, with New Zealand having a close alignment with Saudi Arabia's moderate and responsible approach to regional challenges," an embassy official told Arab News on Wednesday.

He added that the friendship between the two countries is demonstrated by the 7,000 Saudis studying in New Zealand, including over 4,500 students on the King Abdullah Scholarship Program.

"Education is emerging as a cornerstone of the bilateral relationship, and New Zealand and Saudi Arabia are now actively exploring joint research and science opportunities," the official said.

This education relationship has recently been further underpinned by the opening of the Saudi Consulate General and Culture Office in Auckland. This is the first resident Arab diplomatic mission in New Zealand.

Since 1999, New Zealand has been offering Saudis and other nationals from the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) countries 90-day visas.

McCully entered Parliament in 1987 and was first appointed minister in October 1991. He holds a bachelor’s of law degree.