JEDDAH — Saudi authorities have started enforcing the decision requiring workers in commercial activities to get vaccinated against COVID-19 or undergo weekly PCR testing. The move introduced by the Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing applies to workers at restaurants, cafes, food outlets, in addition to those working in men's barbershops and women's beauty parlors. The decision took effect as of Thursday, May 13, the first day of month of Shawwal. The ministry said that workers in these businesses must get vaccinated against COVID-19. In the event of non-compliance with this directive, a PCR test result showing non-infection of coronavirus is required to be submitted every seven days at the expense of the establishment where they are working, the ministry said in a statement. Also, the Ministry of Sports has issued a similar directive applicable to workers of all gyms and sports centers across the Kingdom. If the workers fail to take vaccination, they should submit a PCR test result at a gap of every seven days. The Public Transport Authority directed that all workers and drivers in public transport services, including trains and buses, must be immunized by taking coronavirus vaccine jabs. It is noteworthy that the Ministry of Health has expanded the vaccination campaign against coronavirus by opening vaccination centers in all regions across the Kingdom. This is in continuation of its efforts to preserve the health and safety of citizens and expatriates, as well as to stem the spread of coronavirus. The ministry renewed its call for everyone to register their name on Sehhaty application and book an appointment to take the vaccine.
