Saudi Arabia Lifts All Covid Entry Restrictions for Visitors

Saudi Arabia has abolished all Covid-related entrance restrictions for international tourists with valid tourist visas.

Saudi visitors will no longer be required to show proof of vaccination or a PCR test in order to enter the country.

Institutional quarantine restrictions will be eliminated, and all visitors from nations now on the red list will be permitted access.

Masks will be required only in enclosed public spaces, and social distancing laws would be abolished across the country, including in Makkah and Madinah.

The removal of limitations on recreational, commercial, and religious travelers is the most significant change to travel controls since Saudi Arabia first opened its gates to international tourists in September 2019, less than six months before the kingdom closed its borders.

A “nominal cost” for Covid-19 medical insurance will be included in all visa categories’ fees.

Prior to the relaxation of laws, visitors were needed to provide a negative PCR test taken no more than 48 hours before arrival, and visitors from certain countries were quarantined or red-listed because of the frequency of Covid-19.

Following the outbreak of the pandemic in 2020, Saudi Arabia was one of the first countries to restrict its borders.

At all public venues, including hotels, restaurants, public buildings, and offices, the government has implemented strict health and safety procedures.

Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al Khateeb stated: “We welcome this decision by the central government, which protects both lives and livelihoods while welcoming travellers back to Saudi.

“The return to pre-pandemic levels of openness was made possible by our country’s ambitious vaccination program and other successful efforts to minimise the spread of the virus.

“By reducing costs and inconveniences for travelers, we are also supporting the many thousands of people who depend on tourism, while driving revenue to companies that have been severely affected by the pandemic.”