The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will lift coronavirus restrictions from 17 October 2021, the interior ministry said. Therefore, social distancing rules and regulations will ease and people can move outdoors without masks. Further, the government will allow the two Holy Mosques to contain worshippers to full capacity if they complete vaccinations.
Saudi Arabia decision to ease restrictions
So this decision comes after the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia witnessed a sharp decline in spread of the virus. Further, the inoculation drive was considerably successful. Hence, the interior ministry has promulgated that if citizens have had both doses of the vaccine, they can entertain entry into restaurants, cinemas and closed venues. Furthermore, masks will no longer be mandatory in public places. However, in closed places they are still a must. Also, no social distancing will be required for vaccinated individuals. Thus, the only important condition will be the complete vaccination of the citizen in accordance with the rules of the kingdom.
Thus, these few regulations will allow the Covid-19 restrictions to ease almost after 19 months since the pandemic became active in March 2020. Regardless, masks will be necessary for workers and visitors in the corridors of the two Holy Mosques.
Thorough checks for immune health status
All the public and private sector authorities shall check the immune health status on the Tawakkalna application for all individuals who wish to enter their premises. If health status checks have not been certified by the application, maintaining physical distancing and wearing masks will continue. Violators of preventive actions will suffer punitive measures. Further, the Ministry of Health will check all new cases of coronavirus, and submit a report if there is a need to exercise more restrictions. Furthermore, these decisions are subject to periodic review in accordance with local and international developments pertaining to the pandemic.
Conclusion
Thus, the temporary ban on Umrah pilgrimage active since 27 February 2020, will be lifted. Domestic and international flights will resume. Restrictions on public travel as well as socializing will ease with precautionary measures in effect.
