Qatar: Authorities to ease COVID-19 restrictions in four phases starting May 28 /update 28

Event

Qatari authorities have announced that they plan to lift COVID-19 restrictions in four phases starting May 28. Each phase will last around three weeks. The following measures will take effect during the first phase:

• Public transport can operate at 30 percent capacity.

• Offices can operate at a maximum capacity of 50 percent. Business meetings are limited to 15 vaccinated individuals.

• Restaurants and cafes can open at 30 percent capacity.

• Malls, shopping centers, and wholesale markets can open at 30 percent capacity.

• Gyms, public parks, cinemas, museums, and libraries can open at 30 percent capacity.

• Gatherings are limited to 10 vaccinated people in open areas and five vaccinated people in closed places.

• 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.

The second phase is due to start June 18.

Travel Restrictions
Individuals traveling from Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Pakistan, the Philippines, and Sri Lanka have to quarantine for 10 days at a government-designated hotel upon arrival, regardless of whether they are fully vaccinated. Passengers from these countries must also obtain a negative COVID-19 test within 48 hours of departure. The measures apply to both travelers arriving via direct flights or transit.

Meanwhile, 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. Travelers from other countries have to obtain a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours of arrival. The results have to be accredited by the local Ministry of Health in the country of departure.

Currently, only nationals, permanent residents, GCC citizens and 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.

At present, individuals who have received the required doses of approved COVID-19 vaccines are exempt from quarantine requirements when returning to Qatar; they must allow at least 14 days to pass following their final dose and test negative upon arrival. The quarantine exemption will be valid for six months, starting from 14 days after the final 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