Saudi Arabia: Government lifts COVID-19-related closure of air, land, and sea borders Jan. 3 /update 47

Event

The Saudi government has lifted a ban on all international flights and the closure of its land and sea borders to travelers effective 1100 Jan. 3. Some restrictions remain in place over concerns of a new coronavirus disease (COVID-19) variant.

Non-Saudis arriving from the United Kingdom, South Africa, and other countries where a new variant of the virus has been detected must remain outside of these countries for 14 days before entering the Kingdom. Saudi nationals are permitted entry into the Kingdom from countries where the new variant has been found but will have to quarantine for 14 days and be subject to two PCR exams. The move follows a number of more targeted travel bans by several other countries in reaction to the new disease variant, which was initially discovered in the southeast of England. Arrivals from non-restricted areas will be subject to a maximum of seven days quarantine; however, the quarantine period will be reduced to three days upon the completion of a PCR test.

Domestically, commercial and business activities are operating, but strict public health measures are in place. Establishments that open must implement enhanced sanitization procedures, perform temperature checks of employees and patrons, and comply with social distancing guidelines. All gatherings are limited to no more than 50 people.

Authorities could reintroduce restrictive measures relating to the COVID-19 pandemic if there is a significant increase in cases; such protocols could be ambiguous and occasionally contradictory.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments. Plan for queues and delays at available shopping centers.

Emphasize basic health precautions, especially frequent handwashing with soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are unavailable. Practice good coughing/sneezing etiquette (i.e., covering coughs and sneezes with a disposable tissue, maintaining distance from others, and washing hands). There is no evidence that the influenza vaccine, antibiotics, or antiviral medications will prevent this disease, highlighting the importance of diligent basic health precautions.

Resources

World Health Organization (WHO)
Saudi Ministry of Health
Saudi Ministry of Interior
Health Declaration Form
Tawakkalna App
Tataman App