Saudi Arabia updates pilgrim entry procedures for Umrah

Negative PCR test or negative antigen test 48 hours before departure mandatory

File photo: Saudi security officers stand in front of the Kaaba, as muslims pray during the Laylat al-Qadr, or Night of Power, following the outbreak of the Covid-19, during Ramadan, at the Grand Mosque, in Mecca on May 19, 2020 Reuters

Tribune Desk

Publish : 08 Feb 2022, 01:57 PMUpdate : 10 Feb 2022, 02:20 PM

Saudi Arabia has made a negative PCR or antigen test mandatory for pilgrims entering the country to perform the Umrah.

All those coming from outside are required to submit a negative test, regardless of their immunization status, Saudi Gazette reported citing an announcement by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.

The updated procedures will come into force starting at 1am local time on Wednesday (February 9), it said 2022.

The kingdom earlier announced new travel restrictions starting on Wednesday.

The new restrictions were introduced in line with constant follow-up to the epidemiological situation locally and globally, and as part of the measures being taken by the Kingdom to counter the spread of Covid 19 and preserve public health, the ministry said.