Saudi Arabia Bans Entry of Citizens From Congo, Uganda and South Sudan
Key Takeaways
- Saudi citizens are barred from travelling to the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda and South Sudan
- Visas and entry are suspended for travellers from the three countries, including Umrah pilgrims
- Enhanced health screening applies to arrivals from neighbouring countries: Rwanda, Burundi, Tanzania and the Republic of Congo
Saudi Arabia has suspended travel by its citizens to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Uganda and South Sudan, and halted the issuance of visas and entry for anyone arriving from the three countries as a precaution against the spread of the Ebola virus.
The restrictions extend to Umrah pilgrims travelling from the affected countries.
Who Is Affected
The ban covers all travellers — regardless of nationality — arriving from the DRC, Uganda or South Sudan, including those who have passed through third countries but spent time in any of the three nations within the 21 days before entering Saudi Arabia.
The Saudi Press Agency (SPA) said the measures were put in place to protect public health and prevent the cross-border spread of infectious disease.
Enhanced Screening for Neighbouring Countries
For travellers arriving from countries neighbouring the outbreak zone — Rwanda, Burundi, Tanzania and the Republic of Congo — Saudi Arabia has tightened health screening at entry points rather than imposing a full ban.
The Public Health Authority (Weqaya) said this includes strengthened disease surveillance and early response procedures.
No Cases Recorded in Saudi Arabia
Weqaya said the overall public health situation in the Kingdom remained stable and that no confirmed or suspected Ebola cases had been recorded since the preventive measures were introduced.
The authority added that its health surveillance and epidemic response system was operating around the clock in coordination with domestic and international health bodies.
Weqaya said it would continue monitoring regional and international developments and update its guidance as the outbreak situation changes.
