Health Alert: U.S. Embassy Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, December 21, 2020

Location: Saudi international airports, and land and sea ports

Event: The government of Saudi Arabia has announced additional COVID-19 related restrictions beginning today, December 21, 2020. All international flights for travelers have been suspended for one week except for foreign carriers that are currently inside the Kingdom which should be able to return to their home destination or hub. Additionally, entry to the Kingdom through land and sea ports is suspended for one week. These suspensions are a response to the new strain of COVID-19, and the government may extend these suspensions based on their assessment of the pandemic.

Actions to Take:

Stay abreast of local news and information concerning travel restrictions.
Check with your airlines regarding any updated information about your travel plans and/or restrictions. Please note that while you may be able to make an online purchase for a flight, flights may not be guaranteed for departure and your flight may still be cancelled.
Most U.S. citizens who are in Saudi Arabia on visit visas (business or family visit) will not have additional exit requirements but must depart the Kingdom before the expiration of their authorized period of stay. You can request a visa extension via the Ministry of the Interior website or in person through the General Directorate of Passports (Jawazat).
Consult the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for the most up-to-date information.
Visit the COVID-19 crisis page on travel.state.gov for the latest information.
Visit our Embassy webpage on COVID-19 for information on conditions in Saudi Arabia.
Visit the Department of Homeland Security’s website on the latest travel restrictions to the United States.