Saudi Citizens Face Fine & Two-Year Ban for Travel to Prohibited Count

Saudi citizens who travel to prohibited countries face a maximum fine of SAR 30,000 and a travel ban of up to two years, with the fine doubled and the ban extended to five years for repeat offences. The Minister of Interior determines the list of prohibited countries. Penalties may increase if the destination is dangerous, a conflict zone, or subject to emergency restrictions, and may be reduced in specific cases, such as first-degree family ties, transiting for no more than 48 hours on an indirect flight, or travellers aged 60 or above.

The executive regulations of the Travel Documents Law, approved by Minister of Interior Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif, also outline penalties for document-related violations. Providing false information when applying for a travel document can result in a fine of up to SAR 5,000, doubled for repeat offences, and a travel ban not exceeding six months.

Altering or damaging travel documents, or falsifying photographs, may lead to referral to the Public Prosecution. Enabling another person to use a travel document unlawfully, or selling or pawning it, carries a fine of up to SAR 100,000 and a travel ban of up to five years, with doubled fines for repeat offences. Using or assisting in the unlawful use of another person’s travel document incurs the same penalties.

Leaving or entering the Kingdom through non-designated ports without a valid excuse may result in a fine of up to SAR 100,000 and a travel ban of up to five years, doubled for repeat violations. The regulations set procedures for issuing passports, handling losses, and penalties for negligence, and confirm that entry and exit are only permitted through official ports. Citizens must keep their passports secure and use their national identity card for domestic identification.

Those travelling abroad with permanent or semi-permanent residency must register their passports with Saudi embassies or consulates. Using a passport reported lost electronically is prohibited; if recovered, it must be submitted to the Passport Department for cancellation. Embassies and consulates may issue travel documents to citizens who have lost or damaged passports abroad, except for those proving permanent or semi-permanent residency. Any new passport issued after a loss abroad must be reported to the Directorate of Passports, which then informs the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.