Umm Muhammed Umar

Saudi Arabia has announced that it is to allow entry into the Kingdom even to those who have not been vaccinated against the novel coronavirus. Entry would now be possible for Iqama holders, Umrah pilgrims, or those holding a visit visa, without having to produce a vaccine certificate. Further, a PCR test would not be necessary.

Life in Saudi Arabia reports that the Kingdom’s Ministry of Health tweeted the coronavirus restrictions had been lifted, citing 99% immunization; the target having been all those aged 12 and above. It seems, however, that non vaccinated Iqama holders and visitors would still have to undertake quarantine.

The following were reportedly prerequisites for those wishing to enter the Kingdom:

• Muqeem Vaccination Registration. While this would require one to disclose one’s vaccine status, it does not compel one to be vaccinated.
• Flight ticket
• Passport
• A valid visa
• Travel insurance covering COVID-19, in the case of visitors.

According to Life in Saudi Arabia, entry has been suspended for travellers from Turkey and Lebanon, even for those who have merely passed through these countries from their home countries, in the previous 14 days before arrival in the Kingdom.

Meanwhile, members of the South African Hajj and Umrah Council, present at a conference in KSA, were awaiting the disclosure of the Hajj quota for South Africa.