Saudi Arabia lifts Covid-19 restrictions

Masks are no longer mandatory in outdoor spaces and social distancing isn’t required in mosques 

The Saudi Ministry of Interior has announced that the Covid-19 restrictions in the country have been lifted.

A ministry official said in a statement that the decision to lift the restrictions was made based on feedback from health authorities, as well as the progress of the national vaccination programme and the resulting immunity achieved across the community.

According to the statement, social distancing measures are now suspended in places of worship although worshipers must continue to wear masks inside these venues.

Officials clarified that it’s no longer mandatory to wear masks in open areas – but wearing masks indoors is still required.

With regards to travel, Saudi Arabia has lifted a ban on flights from and to 17 countries: South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Lesotho, Eswatini, Mozambique, Malawi, Mauritius, Zambia, Madagascar, Angola, Seychelles, Comoros, Nigeria, Ethiopia and Afghanistan.

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In addition, passengers arriving in Saudi will no longer be required to present PCR test or rapid antigen test results, however, tourists arriving in the kingdom on visit visas are required to have medical insurance to cover Covid-19 treatment costs during their stay.

Quarantine requirements for passengers arriving in the country have also been lifted.

Tawakkalna application is still needed to enter offices, some public and private buildings, airports and public transport.

Authorities have also advised the public to take the third booster dose.