Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Tourism has issued new relaxed regulations allowing international tourists to return to the country, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported. Under these regulations, foreign tourists who have been fully vaccinated with a Covid-19 vaccine approved by the country, including Pfizer, AstraZeneca, Moderna or Johnson & Johnson, and have a negative PCR test for SARS-CoV-2 virus performed within 72 hours before departure, will be allowed to enter Saudi Arabia "without quarantine". At the same time, tourists must still declare their medical status to the authorities of the host country.
Saudi Arabian passengers at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah.
Riyadh has invested billions of dollars to improve tourism, part of an effort to diversify its oil-dependent economy. Saudi Arabia began issuing tourist visas for the first time in 2019 as part of a program to promote the country's image and attract tourists. However, due to the impact of the pandemic, the country was forced to issue restrictions on international visitors.
Covid-19 has also significantly disrupted Muslim pilgrimages to Mecca, which are typically a major source of revenue for Saudi Arabia. Without the pandemic, the pilgrimages bring in about $12 billion a year.
Mecca - the place where the annual Muslim pilgrimage takes place.
Currently, only fully vaccinated and Saudi Arabian residents are allowed to participate in the pilgrimage.
The government has accelerated its nationwide vaccination campaign to revive tourism and organize sports and entertainment activities.
Saudi Arabia has so far administered 26 million doses of Covid-19 vaccine. Starting August 1, only vaccinated people will be allowed to enter government buildings, educational centers, attend entertainment events and use public transportation.
