COVID-19: Saudi Arabia suspends international flights, closes land and seaports

File picture

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has issued a statement saying that international flights are being suspended for seven days as an urgent measure following the spread of the new strain of the COVID-19 virus.

The Saudi Interior Ministry said the cancellation would apply to all passengers, apart from exceptional cases. 

In addition, entry into the Kingdom through land and seaports has been suspended for a week, with the possibility of an extension.

Anyone who has returned from a European country or any nation where the new strain has appeared after December 8, must home isolate for two weeks, starting from the date of entering the Kingdom.

They must also take a COVID-19 test during the isolation period and retake the test every five days.

Also, anyone who has returned from or passed through a European country, or any country where the new strain has appeared, during the past three months, must take a COVID-19 test.

The movement of goods, commodities and supply chains from countries where the new strain of COVID-19 has not appeared are excluded from these measures.

The procedures will be reviewed in light of the developments related to the pandemic, and the latest reports received by the Saudi Ministry of Health.

More from International

Coming Up on Dubai Eye

  • The Score

    7:00pm - 9:00pm

    Hosted by Chris McHardy, The Score is your comprehensive guide to the world of sport.

  • The Night Shift with Mark Lloyd

    9:00pm - 11:00pm

    Musicians and music, entertainers and entertainment, industry gossip and songs selected by you, get ready to bring your night time to life! Every evening from eight, Mark Lloyd brings you an energetic mix of local and international content and contests, featuring an array of celebrity interviews and entertaining anecdotes. Get involved in the show and pick your favourite jukebox hits, every night from 8pm - 11pm.

BUSINESS BREAKFAST LATEST

On Dubai Eye

  • Is There Sufficient House Supply In UAE

    Dubai’s current population is more than double compared to almost twenty years ago, which now stands at 3.7 million. Lots of families are also moving to the UAE now. So what does it mean for the property market?

  • Noon's First Female Delivery Driver

    Glory Ehirim Nkiruka is Noon’s first ever female delivery driver. In her first ever interview, she explained why she loves her job, despite the heat!