Saudi Arabia halts flights from total of 14 African nations due to omicron variant

Expats will be denied entry if they have been in any of the countries listed within the last 14 days before arrival in the Kingdom. (File/AFP)
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Updated 29 November 2021
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Saudi Arabia halts flights from total of 14 African nations due to omicron variant

  • Saudi Arabia's Health Ministry said that no omicron cases had been detected in the country so far

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia announced on Sunday it was temporarily suspending flights to and from seven African countries due to the outbreak of the newly discovered coronavirus strain, omicron. 

The countries are Malawi, Zambia, Madagascar, Angola, Seychelles, Mauritius and Comoros, an official source from the Ministry of Interior told Saudi state news agency SPA.

The Kingdom on Friday announced the suspension of flights to and from South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Lesotho, and Eswatini due to concerns over the variant. This brings the total number of banned African countries to 14. 

Expats will be denied entry if they have been in any of the countries listed within the last 14 days before arrival in the Kingdom. 

Nationals and expats who are allowed entry will be required to quarantine for five days, including those who have been vaccinated. 

The Ministry of Interior called on those who entered Saudi Arabia after traveling to the list of banned countries after Nov. 1, to take a PCR test.

As of Sunday, Saudi Arabia’s Health Ministry said that no omicron cases had been detected in the country so far.


Interactive experiences bring stories of courage and patience to life at Prince Turki bin Saud Palace

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Interactive experiences bring stories of courage and patience to life at Prince Turki bin Saud Palace

RIYADH: At the historic Prince Turki bin Saud Palace in Diriyah, past and present converge as immersive experiences revive stories of courage, patience and resilience rooted in the era of the First Saudi State.

The palace is one of the key landmarks featured in the “Hal Al-Qusoor” program, a flagship initiative of Diriyah Season 25/26, drawing visitors eager to explore a site rich in cultural and social significance.

Prince Turki was born in the At-Turaif District of historic Diriyah in the late 12th century AH (18th century). He grew up in an environment shaped by courage, horsemanship and leadership, influenced by his father, Imam Saud bin Abdulaziz, the commander of the First Saudi State’s armies.

Located in the southern part of the At-Turaif District, the palace was constructed in the early 13th century AH and reflects the traditional Najdi architectural style.

Built using mud bricks, stone and tamarisk wood, the structure consists of two floors arranged around a central courtyard.

Its wide gates and multiple exits reflect both the architectural traditions of the time and the practical realities of life during that era.

As visitors move through the palace, they can imagine the discussions and strategic decisions that once took place within its walls and contributed to Diriyah’s resilience.

Today, interactive experiences enhanced by sound and lighting technologies bring these historical narratives to life, offering an engaging window into the past.

From private living spaces to formal reception and meeting halls, the palace presents a vivid picture of daily life during the First Saudi State, with architectural details that echo stories of bravery and steadfastness.

Diriyah Season 25/26 supports the vision of the Diriyah Gate Development Authority by reinforcing Diriyah’s role as the birthplace of the Saudi State.