Qatar: Authorities to reimpose some COVID-19 restrictions from March 26 /update 24

Event

Qatari authorities will reimpose some restrictions from March 26 following an increase in COVID-19 cases. Officials will reduce the maximum capacity at private healthcare facilities to 70 percent and malls and shopping centers to 30 percent. Food courts in shopping centers and malls remain closed and can only operate for takeaway and delivery orders. Authorities will also close gyms, public parks, and recreational centers. Additionally, gatherings will be limited to five people in open areas and banned in closed places.

Other measures that remain in place from previous phases include:

• Indoor restaurants and cafes are operating at 15 percent capacity. Restaurants with the "Qatar Clean" Program certificate can open at a maximum outdoor capacity of 50 percent, while other restaurants can open at 30 percent capacity outdoors.

• Wholesale markets are open at 30 percent capacity.

• Public transport and metro services are operating at 30 percent capacity.

• Cinemas and theaters are open at 20 percent capacity.

• Offices should maintain the capacity of employees at 80 percent.

• The wearing of facemasks in public remains mandatory. The rule applies to all individuals except those exercising or participating in sports. Individuals who do not comply with the regulation will face fines and imprisonment.

• Residents must download the EHTERAZ mobile application for COVID-19 updates and contact tracing.

Currently, only nationals, permanent residents, and those with pre-approved entry permits can enter Qatar. Individuals arriving from "high-risk" countries must quarantine at hotels, whereas individuals from "low-risk" countries can quarantine at home. The measures do not apply to those who use shared quarantine facilities; they must continue to quarantine for two weeks. Individuals who have not obtained a COVID-19 test 48 hours before arrival have to take the test upon arriving at Doha International Airport (DOH). Authorities will conduct a second COVID-19 test six days after arrival.

Additionally, following the discovery of new strains of COVID-19, individuals arriving from Denmark, the Netherlands, South Africa, and the UK must enter a seven-night quarantine at a government-designated hotel. Individuals are required to provide proof of hotel reservation before boarding their flights to Qatar.

Individuals who have received the second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine are exempt from quarantine requirements when returning to Qatar. The measure only applies to individuals who received their vaccinations in Qatar; they must allow at least 14 days to pass following their second dose and test negative upon arrival. The quarantine exemption will be valid for three months, starting after 14 days from the second dose.

Residents who are currently in Qatar and wish to travel will automatically receive an exceptional entry permit upon departure, which will allow them to return to the country. However, residents who are currently outside Qatar have to obtain an exceptional return permit via the "Qatar Portal" website if they wish to return.

Officials could reimpose restrictions or delay the phases depending on the COVID-19 cases.

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. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments. Plan for queues and delays at available shopping centers.

Resources

World Health Organization (WHO)
Qatar Ministry of Public Health