Cautious welcome for end to Saudi overseas travel ban

Experts predict surge in demand for flights and hotels, but visiting some countries is still a risk

Saudis on Monday gave a cautious welcome to the removal of travel restrictions that will permit vaccinated people and those who have recovered from COVID-19 to travel abroad from May 17.

Experts predicted a surge in demand for airline tickets and hotel reservations, but others warned that a risk remained in visiting countries where the coronavirus was not under control.

“This is a refreshing, dynamic and optimistic decision. Finally we can see the light at the end of the tunnel. However, it all depends on whether people maintain the guidelines of the government, wear masks and do not mix too much in social gatherings,” Mona Salahuddin Al-Munajjed, a writer and adviser on social issues, told Arab News.

Dr. Osama Ghanem Al-Obaidy, a professor of law at the Institute of Public Administration in Riyadh, said lifting the travel ban will be a “great relief,” especially for frequent travelers abroad.

“The lifting of the ban is a welcome move and will help the tourism industry and travel agencies across the Kingdom, as well as the airlines operating to and from the

Kingdom that suffered big losses due to the travel ban,” he said. “It will also increase the profits of travel agencies.” However, financial analyst Talat Zaki Hafiz urged caution. “I believe one should not travel abroad unless on urgent business or for family reasons, especially to countries suffering badly from the pandemic,” he said.

Travel to countries that are badly affected may expose visitors to infection when they cannot obtain adequate medical care, Hafiz said. “Let us not forget that the Saudi government provides free treatment to all people with COVID-19 irrespective of nationality, which may not be available in some other countries.”

The lifting of the ban is a welcome move and will help the tourism industry and travel agencies across Saudi Arabia.

Dr. Osama Ghanem Al-Obaidy Professor of law at Institute of Public Administration in Riyadh