The decision was based on the follow-up of the epidemiological situation of the coronavirus pandemic, health recommendations, and the effective nationwide vaccination program, the interior ministry was quoted by SPA as saying.

Wearing masks will not be required in closed places, except in the two holy mosques in Mecca and Medina, the ministry said.

Immunization and health verification are no longer required for entering facilities, attending activities, boarding planes, and using public transport, it added.

In addition, citizens who wish to travel abroad only have to wait eight days instead of three months to get the third booster dose of the COVID-19 vaccine after receiving the second dose, the ministry noted.

Saudi Arabia has been easing preventive measures against the virus since last year after its success in curbing the COVID-19 spread because of the vaccination program.

Like the rest of the world, the kingdom closed down institutions and work places and opted for virtual activities in 2020 to deal with the global pandemic and high mortalities.