Oman: Authorities to amend curfew hours to 17:00-04:00 from July 16 due to COVID-19 activity /update 53

Event

Authorities are to increase the nightly curfew by three hours, from 20:00-04:00 to 17:00-04:00, effective July 16-31 due to COVID-19 activity. All commercial services and travel will be restricted during curfew hours. The measure does not apply to home deliveries or restaurants at four and five-star hotels. The measure does not apply to Musandam Governorate; entry to the governorate will be allowed only for those who are aged 18 and older who have received at least one dose of a government-approved vaccine.

Authorities closed all land ports, July 6, until further notice.

From July 9, Singapore, Indonesia, Iraq, Iran, Tunisia, Libya, Argentina, Colombia, and Brunei will be added to the country's entry ban list until further notice. Existing entry bans remain in place for travelers from Bangladesh, Brazil, Ethiopia, India, Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines, Sierra Leone, Sudan, Tanzania, and the UK. Travelers from Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam may also not be allowed to enter the country. Permitted travelers who have visited the aforementioned countries within the previous 14-days will be denied entry. Diplomats, health workers, Omani citizens, and family members of such persons traveling from these countries are exempt from the ban.

All travelers to Oman must undergo a COVID-19 PCR test within 72 hours before their arrival. Moreover, all incoming travelers must download the "Tarassud+" mobile application before entering the country. Authorities will conduct an additional PCR test upon arrival, with those remaining in Oman taking another such test on the eighth day of their stay. All incoming travelers must also quarantine for a minimum of seven days at a government-approved hotel or isolation center. Authorities have suspended the option to isolate at a private residence until further notice. Travelers must book their quarantine accommodations via the Sahala platform. Release from quarantine is contingent upon a negative COVID-19 test result. All foreigners, except Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nationals, must have international health insurance covering COVID-19 expenses for the duration of their stay.

Other restrictions, including mandates limiting public gatherings, the use of protective face coverings, and compliance with social distancing guidelines, remain in force. 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. Confirm 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
Sahala platform
Tarassud+ App