All Arab Gulf countries except Kuwait have allowed expatriates with valid residency, and even valid visa holders to enter their lands, following health and precautionary measures established to prevent the spread of Coronavirus, Al Qabas reported.

Gulf countries announced various precautionary measures to prevent the spread of coronavirus or the entry of mutated strains in the country. Despite the ban of some Gulf countries such as Saudi Arabia and Oman on direct flights from countries with cases of mutated strains, the resident workers were allowed to enter the country with necessary quarantine periods.

Kuwait– On February 7, 2021, a Cabinet decision was issued banning entry to non-Kuwaitis for a period of two weeks. The decision was extended and is still in effect.

Saudi Arabia- In September 2020, it announced several exceptions, including allowing citizens of the Gulf countries to enter and exit the country.

It also allowed entry to non-Saudis who obtained exit, return, work, residence, or visit visas, by following preventive health measures, and although it extended the travel ban until May of this year, these exceptions continue.

UAE- In August 2020, UAE allowed the return of resident expatriates without submitting a prior approval request, and it also allowed the entry of those with valid visas.

Qatar- At the beginning of August 2020, it allowed residents outside Qatar to return by applying for an exceptional entry permit. In addition to that, residents who are in Qatar and wish to travel and return to the country can do it by obtaining an exceptional entry permit.

Whereas for expatriate workers who hold professional and manual professions, the employer in the public and private sectors can submit an application for an exceptional entry permit for residents of the owners of these trades.

Sultanate of Oman- The latest update on travel to the Sultanate was announced this April, which allowed only those residents with visas issued before April 5 to enter its lands.

Bahrain– Since last September, Bahrain announced that it would allow residents of the Gulf countries to enter its territories, as well as holders of electronic visas or those entitled to obtain a visa upon arrival to Bahrain while following health controls and requirements.


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