Saudi Arabia: Authorities extend coronavirus disease-related ban on travel for its citizens and the reopening of its ports from March 31 to May 17 /update 50

Event

Due to the ongoing coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, authorities in Saudi Arabia have postponed the end of a ban on international travel for its citizens and the reopening of its land, sea, and air borders from March 31 to May 17.

In accordance with restrictions in force as of Jan. 29, only non-Saudis who hold valid exit and entry, work, or residency visas are currently permitted to enter Saudi Arabia; travelers with tourist visas are barred from entry. Authorities are requiring all non-Saudis, except for children aged eight and under, to present a negative coronavirus disease (COVID-19) test to travel to Saudi Arabia. The COVID-19 test must have been administered within no more than 72 hours prior to departing for the kingdom; travelers who do not provide the requisite negative test result will be barred from boarding their flight. Travelers are required to complete a health disclaimer form and download and register on the Tatamman and Tawakkalna applications prior to arrival in Saudi Arabia. All arrivals are subject to a maximum of seven days' home quarantine; however, the quarantine period may be reduced to three days upon the completion of an additional COVID-19 test.

Some special restrictions imposed due to concerns over a new COVID-19 variant remain in place. Non-Saudis arriving from the UK, South Africa, India, Brazil, Argentina, and other countries where a new variant of the virus has been detected must remain outside of these countries for 14 days before entering Saudi Arabia. Saudi nationals are permitted to enter the kingdom from countries where the new variant has been found but must quarantine for 14 days and submit two COVID-19 tests.

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 restrictions if there is a significant increase in COVID-19 cases; associated protocols could be ambiguous and occasionally contradictory.

Resources

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