Saudi Arabia removes travel restrictions to India, Turkey, Ethiopia, and Vietnam

According to the state news agency SPA, Saudi Arabia relaxed travel restrictions on its people traveling to Turkey, India, Ethiopia, and Vietnam.

"A decision has been made to lift the suspension of direct or indirect travel by citizens to Ethiopia, Turkey, Vietnam, and India," an interior ministry official cited the Saudi Press Agency on Monday.

The decision was taken "based on the follow-up to the epidemiological situation of the coronavirus pandemic," according to the official.

This month, the monarchy withdrew regulations that had been implemented to limit the spread of the virus, including the necessity to wear face masks indoors.

Saudi Arabia issued a ban on all international travel at the onset of the pandemic; as of last month, 16 countries, including Turkey, remained off-limits to Saudi citizens.

The action comes two days before Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman's anticipated visit to Turkey.

Turkey is a popular vacation destination among Saudi families.

Following visits to Egypt and Jordan, Prince Mohammed is set to arrive in Turkey on Wednesday.