RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – The Saudi Arabian government has lifted all Covid-related entry restrictions for holders of tourism visas, making the destination one of the most accessible to travelers in the world.
Effective immediately, visitors to Saudi Arabia will no longer need to present proof of vaccination or a PCR test to enter the country. Institutional quarantine requirements will be entirely removed, and all travelers from the countries currently red-listed will be allowed entry.
Social distancing rules will be lifted across the country, including Makkah and Madinah, and masks will be required in enclosed public places only.
This lifting of restrictions on leisure, business, and religious visitors marks the most comprehensive update to travel regulations since Saudi first opened to international travelers in September 2019.
“We welcome this decision by the central government, which protects both lives and livelihoods while welcoming travelers back to Saudi,” said Ahmed Al-Khateeb, Minister of Tourism for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.”
Saudi Arabia was one of the first countries to close its borders following the emergence of COVID-19. Since then, the government has implemented stringent health and safety protocols at all public venues, including hotels, restaurants, public buildings and offices.
Prior to the easing of regulations, visitors were required to submit a negative PCR test taken no more than 48 hours before arrival, while quarantine was required for visitors from some countries and others were red-listed due to the prevalence of COVID-19.
THESE ARE THE COUNTRIES WITH RESTRICTION FREE ENTRY
- Mexico
- Dominican Republic
- Norway
- Iceland
- Slovenia
- Bahrain
- Jordan
- Ireland
- Saudi Arabia