The announcement, issued on October 30, 2026, follows an assessment of the epidemiological situation by the relevant Saudi health authorities. The measures are designed to reduce risks associated with the Ebola virus while protecting citizens, residents and visitors through strengthened preventive controls and continued public health monitoring.

Under the announced measures, Saudi citizens are prohibited from traveling to Kenya while the restrictions remain in force. Saudi authorities have also suspended the issuance of all categories of visas to individuals arriving from Kenya and prohibited their entry into the Kingdom. Importantly, the restrictions also cover travelers arriving through other countries if they stayed in Kenya or countries experiencing Ebola outbreaks during the 21 days preceding their intended arrival in Saudi Arabia.

The latest measures are part of a broader preventive framework that Saudi Arabia began implementing in July 2019 and strengthened in May 2026. In June 2026, the Kingdom introduced additional restrictions covering the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda and South Sudan. Those measures included suspending Saudi citizens’ travel to the affected countries as well as visa issuance and entry for people arriving from them, reflecting the authorities’ continuing assessment of regional health risks.

Saudi health authorities have emphasized that epidemiological monitoring and risk assessment remain central to the Kingdom’s public health response. Preventive measures include health screening at entry points, epidemiological investigations and early-response procedures when potential risks are identified. Saudi institutions are also coordinating with relevant domestic and international authorities to assess new developments and maintain their ability to respond effectively to evolving health situations.

The Saudi Public Health Authority, known as Weqaya, has reassured the public that the health situation inside the Kingdom remains stable and subject to close monitoring. Travelers affected by the announced restrictions are advised to review official Saudi government guidance before making travel arrangements or submitting visa applications, particularly if they have recently stayed in an affected country. The authorities have presented these restrictions as preventive measures intended to safeguard public health rather than as an indication of an uncontrolled outbreak inside Saudi Arabia.
Source: Saudi Press Agency (SPA)