Travellers are being advised to consider an overland route through Saudi Arabia after the airspace of Kuwait was temporarily closed due to the current Iran Israel and United States (US) situations and regional tensions, according to reports on Tuesday.
Kuwait airspace shutdown: how can you travel abroad?
Authorities have said that Saudi Arabia allows travellers to pass through the country using a transit visa.
This visa is meant for people travelling to a third country. It is valid for up to 72 hours.
Travellers who want to use this option must meet certain requirements.
Eligibility criteria for the visas
They must have a passport that is valid for at least six months. They must also show a confirmed onward ticket.
A Saudi transit visa is also required. Travellers can apply for this visa online through the official portal ksavisa.sa. It can also be obtained through the Saudi Embassy in Kuwait.
Some of the travellers may also be eligible for a visa on arrival in Saudi Arabia.
This option is available for those people who hold a valid United States visa that has been used at least once.
It also applies to travellers who hold a Schengen visa, as well as US and European passport holders.
Travellers must pay the required fees and follow all Saudi entry rules.
Officials said the transit visa is the recommended option for people passing through Saudi Arabia to reach another country.
The visa remains valid for 72 hours and can be issued for single or double entry, depending on the travel plan.
For those travelling by road, one possible route leads to King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah.
The route starts from the Kuwait City. It continues through Al Khafji, Dammam, Riyadh and Mecca before reaching Jeddah.
The journey by car may take around 16 to 18 hours. This time includes rest stops and border crossing procedures.
