Singapore is preparing a repatriation flight to bring its citizens and their dependents home from Saudi Arabia, as regional travel disruptions continue. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) announced the planned flight, scheduled to operate between March 10 and March 12, though the timing remains subject to securing necessary flight approvals and assessing the evolving situation on the ground. This effort is part of a broader initiative to assist Singaporeans across the Middle East amid ongoing airport closures and travel challenges.
The MFA is currently gathering information from citizens who wish to return, utilizing a form to express interest in both the repatriation flight and available overland transport options. The form will close at 11:59 pm on Sunday, providing a limited window for Singaporeans to register their need for assistance. Details regarding the flight, including payment procedures for seat reservations, will be communicated directly to those who have indicated their interest once confirmed.
Overland Transport Options Available
To facilitate travel to Riyadh for the repatriation flight, overland transport will be provided from several key cities: Doha, Manama, Al Khobar, and Jeddah. This transport will operate one day prior to the confirmed flight date. However, the MFA clarified that overland transport will not be available for Singaporeans located in other parts of the region. Separate arrangements are being explored for citizens currently in Jordan and Kuwait to reach designated points of embarkation.
Travelers on the repatriation flight should be aware of certain restrictions. No meals will be provided during the flight, and the baggage allowance is capped at 30kg per passenger. Requests for oversized or excess baggage will not be accommodated. The flight is exclusively for Singaporean citizens and their immediate dependents, and the transport of pets, weapons, or firearms is strictly prohibited.
This repatriation effort follows the announcement on Thursday of flights from Muscat, Oman, on Saturday and Sunday. The MFA stated the additional flight on Sunday was arranged due to high demand. Singaporeans in the United Arab Emirates are being offered coach transport to Muscat to connect with these flights.
Assistance for Travelers in Qatar
Singapore’s Embassy in Doha is as well actively assisting citizens in Qatar, exploring options for an assisted land departure to Saudi Arabia. According to a report from Bernama, the proposed journey involves a seven-hour bus ride from Doha to Riyadh, where passengers can then connect to commercial flights back to Singapore. An alternative, longer 17-hour bus route to Jeddah is also being considered, where commercial flights to Singapore remain operational.
The Singapore Embassy in Doha also noted that Singaporean passport holders will require a visa to enter Saudi Arabia, but are eligible for e-visas that can be applied for online, as highlighted in a Facebook post.
The MFA continues to monitor the situation closely and is committed to providing assistance to Singaporeans affected by the travel disruptions in the Middle East. Citizens requiring consular assistance are encouraged to register their details and remain in contact with the MFA or the nearest Singaporean embassy or consulate.
As the situation remains fluid, Singaporeans in the region are advised to stay updated on the latest travel advisories and announcements from the MFA. The Ministry will continue to provide updates and support to its citizens as the situation evolves.
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