Saudi Arabia Suspends Kenya Travel Over Ebola

Saudi Arabia Suspends Travel to Kenya Over Ebola Concerns

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – October 30, 2026: Saudi Arabia has introduced additional precautionary measures to reduce potential health risks associated with the Ebola virus outbreak. The new restrictions include suspending travel by Saudi citizens to Kenya, stopping the issuance of all types of visas to travellers from the country and preventing their entry into the Kingdom. The decision follows an assessment of the epidemiological situation by the relevant Saudi health authorities.

Saudi Arabia Introduces New Visa Restrictions for Kenya

Under the latest measures, Saudi authorities have suspended the issuance of all visa categories for travellers arriving from Kenya. Entry into Saudi Arabia has also been restricted for people coming from the East African country. The measures are intended to reduce the possibility of Ebola-related health risks entering the Kingdom through international travel.

Read more :  Saudi Authorities Arrest Man in Jeddah Drug Case

21-Day Travel History Rule for International Passengers

The restrictions also cover travellers arriving in Saudi Arabia through third countries. Passengers who have stayed in Kenya or other countries affected by Ebola outbreaks during the 21 days before their planned arrival will not be permitted to enter the Kingdom under the announced measures. This provision extends the restrictions beyond direct flights and arrivals from Kenya.

Saudi Health Authorities Assess Ebola Risks

The decision was taken following an assessment of the epidemiological situation by specialised health authorities. Saudi Arabia is continuing to monitor regional and international health developments and coordinate with relevant domestic and international organisations. These measures are part of the Kingdom's wider preventive approach to managing infectious disease risks and protecting public health.

Earlier Ebola Restrictions on African Countries

Saudi Arabia had already introduced travel and entry restrictions in June 2026 for the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda and South Sudan. The Kingdom also strengthened health screening, epidemiological investigations and early response procedures for travellers arriving from countries neighbouring Ebola-affected areas.

Weqaya Says Saudi Arabia's Health Situation Remains Reassuring

The Saudi Public Health Authority, known as Weqaya, has stated that the health situation inside the Kingdom remains reassuring and is under continuous monitoring. The authority continues to track developments in the Ebola situation in coordination with relevant agencies in Saudi Arabia and internationally. It has also indicated that additional preventive measures may be introduced depending on changes in the epidemiological situation.

Saudi Arabia Focuses on Public Health Protection

The latest restrictions reflect Saudi Arabia's efforts to strengthen health security and reduce the risk of infectious diseases spreading across international borders. Authorities are maintaining precautionary monitoring and response arrangements to protect citizens, residents and visitors while keeping track of developments in affected countries.