Saudi Arabia has imposed entry restrictions on travellers from three African countries amid concerns over the spread of Ebola, introducing measures that also affect people who recently visited the affected nations.
The restrictions cover the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Uganda and South Sudan, with travellers who stayed in any of the three countries during the 21 days before their planned arrival also affected, even if they intend to enter Saudi Arabia through another country. The measures were announced on June 25, 2026, according to Saudi authorities.
The restrictions include suspending the issuance of all types of visas for people from the three countries, alongside the suspension of entry into the Kingdom.
Four Other African Countries Face Enhanced Screening
Saudi Arabia has also strengthened health screening for travellers arriving from Rwanda, Burundi, Tanzania and the Republic of the Congo, also known as Congo-Brazzaville.
The measures include enhanced checks at entry points, health monitoring and early-response procedures intended to reduce the risk of the virus spreading across borders.
Saudi authorities said the restrictions were introduced following an assessment of the Ebola situation and were part of wider efforts to protect residents, citizens and visitors.
Ebola Outbreak Spreads Beyond the DRC
The restrictions come as the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo continues to raise regional and international concern.
Reuters reported on October 15, 2026, that the outbreak had extended to North Ubangi province, marking the eighth province affected by the Bundibugyo strain since the outbreak began in mid-May. The report also highlighted concerns about cross-border transmission.
Kenya has also reported two confirmed Ebola cases linked to the outbreak in the DRC, according to Reuters on October 14. The second case involved a close family member of the first patient, who died in Nairobi on October 5.
The developments have increased the importance of surveillance, contact tracing and screening at international travel points.
France Previously Confirmed Ebola Case in Returning Doctor
France also confirmed an Ebola infection in a humanitarian doctor who returned from a mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The French government said the patient was taken to a specialist hospital and health authorities activated surveillance and other precautionary measures. The case was reported in May 2026, with further details published by the government in August.
The case highlighted the risk of infections being detected outside an outbreak zone when people return from affected areas.
What Travellers Need to Know
People planning international travel should check the latest entry requirements with their destination country’s authorities and airline before departure.
Travellers who have recently visited an Ebola-affected area should follow official public health guidance and seek medical advice promptly if they develop symptoms after exposure.
Saudi Arabia’s measures underline the growing use of travel restrictions and enhanced screening as countries seek to limit the international spread of infectious diseases.
