Oman: Authorities to implement nationwide 2000-0500 closure of commercial activities March 4-20 /update 41

Event

Authorities in Oman are to close all commercial activities nationwide 2000-0500 March 4-20. The measure will impact shops, cafes, restaurants, and malls. Pharmacies, health institutions, and petrol stations are exempt from the measure. The number of customers permitted entry at public and private businesses nationwide has been reduced to 50 percent until further notice. Social gatherings are prohibited. The decision is part of the sultanate's efforts to combat COVID-19 and its new variants.

Since Feb. 25, travelers from 10 countries have been banned through at least March 10. The countries affected by the new directive are Lebanon, Sudan, South Africa, Brazil, Nigeria, Tanzania, Ghana, Sierra Leone, and Ethiopia. The measure also applies to travelers from any nation who have transited through one of these countries within the 14 days prior to travel to Oman. Diplomats, health workers, and Omani citizens, as well as family members of such persons are exempt from the ban.

The closure of the sultanate's land borders has been extended until further notice to stem the spread of COVID-19 and its new variants. The closure does not apply to commercial truck traffic. Nevertheless, Oman's air and sea borders remain open. All arriving travelers must produce proof of having tested negative for COVID-19 using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test taken no more than 72 hours prior to arrival. Those traveling by air must also take a second PCR test when they arrive in Oman and a third test after seven days of quarantine. All travelers arriving in the country must submit to a mandatory institutional quarantine for at least seven days. Travelers may reserve their quarantine accommodations at any hotel in the country; alternatively, they may select one of the hotels in Muscat that authorities have designated for this purpose, i.e. the Swiss-Belinn Muscat, Ibis, Secure Inn, Sheraton, Tulip Inn, and Somerset Panorama Muscat. Release from quarantine is contingent upon a negative COVID-19 test result. Moreover, all incoming travelers must download the "Tarassud+" mobile application before entering Oman. All foreigners, with the exception of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nationals, are required to have international health insurance that covers COVID-19 expenses for the duration of their stay.

Nationwide, companies are allowed to operate with 50 percent of their workforce onsite, provided they can comply with social distancing and other safety guidelines. Domestic public transportation is operating. The use of protective facemasks in public spaces and on public transportation remains mandatory.

Authorities could introduce new preventive measures or amend existing restrictions depending on disease activity in the coming days and weeks.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions.

Resources

World Health Organization (WHO)
Ministry of Health
Ministry of Information
SalamAir
Tarassud+ App