Saudi Arabia has announced that all passengers traveling from some specific polio effected countries to Saudi Arabia must present proof of receiving the polio vaccine from their respective country. The vaccination must be administered at least four weeks before travel but not more than 12 months prior. However, those in transit who complete their journey within 12 hours and remain within the transit area will be exempt from this requirement.

Airlines are required to verify passengers’ vaccination certificates before boarding. Non-compliance could lead to penalties, including fines and other legal consequences. This policy specifically targets travelers from polio-affected countries, including Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Nigeria, to protect Saudi Arabia’s polio-free status.

The directive, issued by the Saudi General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), aims to prevent the spread of the poliovirus within the Kingdom.