Saudi Arabia: Authorities remove Argentina, South Africa, and UAE from travel ban list effective Sept. 8 /update 7

Event

Saudi Arabia lifted a COVID-19-related travel ban, allowing the resumption of travel between the kingdom and Argentina, South Africa, and the UAE as of Sept. 8.

On Aug. 24, an entry ban from Afghanistan, Brazil, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Lebanon, Pakistan, Turkey, and Vietnam was lifted for fully vaccinated residents who have been vaccinated in Saudi Arabia. Fully vaccinated travelers are those who have received two doses of the Pfizer, AstraZeneca, or Moderna vaccines or one dose of the Johnson and Johnson vaccine. Saudi nationals, health workers, diplomats, and their families continue to be exempt from the travel ban but may be required to complete a period of quarantine and PCR tests on arrival.

Unvaccinated travelers arriving in Saudi Arabia will be subject to quarantine for at least one week. Those considered fully vaccinated by authorities will not undergo quarantine but must provide a health certificate as proof of vaccination. Travelers with tourist visas are allowed entry provided they are fully vaccinated. For a full list of exemptions, click here.

Authorities require all non-Saudis, except for children aged eight and under, to present a negative PCR test administered within no more than 72 hours before departing for the kingdom; travelers who do not provide the requisite negative test result will be barred from boarding their flight. Travelers must complete a health disclaimer form and download and register on the Tatamman and Tawakkalna mobile applications before arrival in Saudi Arabia.

Saudi citizens are prohibited from international travel if they have not received their second dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. Authorities will also impose a three-year travel ban on citizens traveling to so-called 'red list' countries from which Saudi nationals are prohibited from traveling.

Mandates limiting public gatherings, the use of protective face coverings, and compliance with social distancing guidelines remain in force. Authorities could introduce new preventive measures or amend existing restrictions depending on disease activity in the coming days and weeks.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all business appointments and 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. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions.

Resources

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