Saudi Arabia approves entry of visitors jabbed with Sputnik V Covid-19 vaccine

Saudi Arabia has granted approval for entry of individuals vaccinated with the Russian Sputnik V Covid-19 vaccine starting from January 1, 2022.

However, upon entering the country, persons vaccinated with Sputnik V will be required to quarantine for 48 hours and take a PCR test.

The announcement was made on Sunday by the Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF), the country’s sovereign wealth fund.

Saudi joined 101 other countries approving entry of individuals vaccinated with the Sputnik V vaccine following the extensive discussions between the kingdom’s Ministry of Health and RDIF.

In November, to facilitate approval for the Sputnik V to be recognised for visitors travelling to the kingdom, vaccinated Saudi health minister Fahad Al-Jalajel, Saudi Minister of Investment Khalid Al-Falih met with RDIF CEO Kirill Dmitriev in Riyadh.

BREAKING | RDIF: Saudi Arabia joined more than 100 other countries accepting #sputnikvaccinated visitors. From January 1, 2022, Muslims vaccinated by #SputnikV can take part in Hajj & Umrah pilgrimages.
?https://t.co/HgTi6E2MeB

— Sputnik V (@sputnikvaccine) December 5, 2021

The latest decision will enable Muslims vaccinated with Sputnik V to participate in the Hajj and the Umrah pilgrimages.

Sputnik V vaccinated individuals can now visit a total of 31 countries without any additional Covid-19 related approval.

There are 71 countries that currently request negative PCR or positive antibody tests or have additional requirements at entry.
Only 15 countries require vaccines other than Sputnik V. Five of these countries, including the US, fully rely on the WHO’s approved list of vaccines which Sputnik V is expected to be added to this year.