RIYADH, March 12 (Xinhua) -- Saudi Arabia on Thursday expanded the flight suspension to more countries out of the fear of coronavirus outbreak, Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported.
The EU countries, Switzerland, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, the Philippines, Sudan, Ethiopia, South Sudan, Eritrea, Kenya, Djibouti and Somalia are involved, said an official from the Interior Ministry in a statement carried by the SPA.
All arrivals who come from those countries or have been there during the past 14 days are denied access into Saudi Arabia, the official said.
Saudi citizens and residents are also banned from travelling to those countries, the official added, citing the anti-virus measures recommended by health authorities.
In addition, Saudi Arabia closed down all land ports with Jordan, expect for commercial and freight traffic, as well as humanitarian and exceptional purposes.
It is worth noting that the ban gives a 72-hour period for Saudi citizens and residents abroad to return home.
It also excluded the Philippine and Indian health workers inside Saudi Arabia, as well as all evacuation, shipping and trade trips.
Saudi Arabia has so far reported 45 coronavirus cases, with an increase of 24 alone on Wednesday.
