Dear reader, let us talk about everything related to traveling outside Saudi Arabia. It is one of the largest Arab countries in the Middle East in terms of area, located specifically in the southwest of the Asian continent, forming the largest part of the Arabian Peninsula.
Its area is approximately two million square kilometers. It is bordered to the north by the Republic of Iraq and Jordan, to the northeast by the State of Kuwait, and to the east by Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. Therefore, through the almatar website, we will learn more details.
Conditions for Traveling Outside the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
The General Directorate of Passports in Saudi Arabia has announced eight requirements for citizens traveling outside the Kingdom, including that the passport expiration date must be more than three months when traveling to Arab countries and more than six months when traveling to other countries:
- The Saudi Passports Directorate also stated through its official Twitter account that the expiration date of the national ID card must be more than three months when traveling to Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.
- It also clarified that an expired national ID card in (Absher – Tawakkalna) does not allow travel outside the Kingdom. Additionally, carrying the original ID card is nearly mandatory. The family registry is considered an identification document for dependents inside the Kingdom, and its holder cannot travel to GCC countries either.
- Furthermore, it emphasized that health requirements for citizens wishing to travel outside the Kingdom must be met, including receiving three doses of the COVID-19 vaccine.
- Alternatively, if three doses have not been taken, no more than eight months should have passed since receiving the second dose, except for exempted categories, as specified in the Tawakkalna application.
- For the age group 12 to 16 years, receiving two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine is required. For those under 12 years, a health insurance policy against COVID-19 is mandatory, ensuring compliance with travel requirements in case a visa is required.
Essential Belongings When Traveling Outside the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Continuing our discussion on traveling outside the Kingdom, preparing a travel bag and focusing on its contents is one of the most crucial steps before the trip. Its contents are just as important as your passport when you are abroad.
To avoid forgetting any essential personal belongings during your trip, we will mention the necessary essentials you need if you are traveling outside the Kingdom:
- When packing your bag for international travel, it is advisable to take two suitcases, a large backpack, or a rolling suitcase, where you can pack all your clothes and other items.
- This suitcase can be checked in on the plane or stored in the luggage compartment of buses. Additionally, carrying a small daily-use bag is necessary to keep valuables such as your passport, phone, and money.
- This small bag will remain with you throughout the day. There are some essential items in a travel bag that do not change, whether the trip lasts one day, a week, or even a month.
- These items include a passport, visa, travel tickets, hotel reservation documents, maps, and addresses, particularly the residence or hotel address. You should also carry credit cards, an adequate amount of local currency, mobile phone chargers, and laptop chargers.
- Additionally, bring some medications for chronic diseases, emergency medicine, and a first-aid kit, as climate changes may cause allergies or specific health issues.
- Do not forget to bring hats and sunglasses, as they will be needed for any type of trip, as well as contact lenses with sterile water if you use them, along with essential hygiene products.
Traveling From and To the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
As part of the discussion about traveling outside the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, most countries worldwide are at risk of exposure to COVID-19. The risk level, public health policies, travel advisories, or restrictions can change rapidly.
Therefore, travelers should ensure that they have updated COVID-19 information and be prepared for sudden changes in travel guidelines before and during their journey.
Categories Permitted to Travel From the Kingdom
In continuation of the discussion about traveling outside the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the following categories are allowed to leave the country:
- Citizens who have received the booster (third) dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.
- This requirement does not apply to those who have not exceeded eight months after receiving the second dose or to citizens under 16 years of age.
- Children under 12 years are allowed to travel, provided they have a valid health insurance policy approved by the Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) to cover COVID-19 risks.
Key Entry Procedures for Saudi Arabia
These procedures also apply to citizens and are as follows:
- A negative PCR test or antigen test for COVID-19 is not required before entering the Kingdom.
- For those coming to the Kingdom with any type of visit visa, it is mandatory to have insurance covering the cost of COVID-19 treatment during their stay in Saudi Arabia.
Essential Medical Tips for Travelers
In light of discussing traveling outside the Kingdom, it is essential to follow some medical guidelines to ensure your safety and minimize risks. These include:
- Visit travel clinics at health centers to check if you need any vaccinations for the destinations you are visiting or adjustments to medications for chronic diseases at least three weeks or a month before your trip.
- Pack enough of your prescribed medications for the entire trip, carry a list of prescribed medications, and keep them in their original packaging.
- Review the airline or airport policy regarding the carriage of medications and which medicines are allowed in your luggage.
- Obtain a detailed and updated medical report from your doctor before traveling, especially if you have a chronic illness.
At this point, we have reached the end of the article and have covered all the details related to traveling outside the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. We have also discussed everything you need during travel. Happy reading to all!