Riyadh – Mubasher: Saudi Arabia has suspended the operations of various components across the transportation sector for two weeks, as part of efforts to control the spread of the new coronavirus (COVID-19).

The move comes in line with recommendations by health authorities to protect the health of citizens and residents across the kingdom, an official source in the ministry of interior told state-run Saudi Press Agency (SPA).

All domestic flights will be suspended for a period of 14 days, starting from Saturday 21 March at 6:00 AM. An exception will be made for humanitarian services, medical evacuation flights, and private and necessary cases.

All buses will also be suspended during the same period, with the exception of the buses of government agencies, public or private health facilities, and employee transportation for and commercial entities.

Similarly, train services for all operators will be suspended for 14 days.

Moreover, taxi services will be suspended for 14 days, starting tomorrow, with the exception of airport services. Ride hailing applications will be temporarily blocked as part of the precautionary measures.

Meanwhile, transport ferries between Jizan and Farasan Island will continue to operate while reducing the number of passengers to 100 people per trip, to serve employees and residents of Farasan Island but not for tourist purposes.

In addition, cargo vessels will continue to operate as per the usual program, taking all precautionary and preventive measures.

The decision does not include the various means of transportation of health providers; supplies of basic commodities and services, such as food, energy, water and communications; as well as air freight and security.