Saudi Arabia: Coronavirus vaccine is not permission to travel abroad, says minister

Dubai: Dr. Mohammed Al Abdul Ali, spokesperson for the Saudi Arabia Ministry of Health, said there is no move so far to link taking the vaccine to travelling abroad. “Studies are still underway but the ministry has not sought such requirements so far.”

On the new health measures after the decision to lift travel ban on March 31, Al Abdul Ali said all procedures that need to be followed during travel, including precautionary measures and preventive protocols, will be made applicable to all.

Significant impact

He highlighted the remarkable response by citizens and residents to be vaccinated, attributing this to the positive and significant impact of taking the vaccine by King Salman bin Abdul Aziz.

“The ministry plans to expand the scope of vaccination and accommodate the increasing number of those who wish to take the vaccine,” the spokesperson said. “More than one million people have registered through the “Sehhaty” application,” he added.

Dr. Al Abdul Ali said vaccination centers would soon open in Mecca and Medina, while the centers in the rest regions will be opened during the coming days and weeks.