Oman: Authorities impose an institutional quarantine for all arrivals from Iran and Iraq until further notice as of Aug. 17 /update 57

Event

Authorities in Oman will require all arrivals from Iran and Iraq to undergo institutional quarantine for at least eight days as of Aug. 17. A travel ban on flights from Iran and Iraq is currently enforced; however, special need-based flights operated by approved designated carriers are in operation to Oman. Entry bans remain for travelers from several other countries, including Bangladesh, Brazil, India, Nigeria, Pakistan, the Philippines, and the UK. For a full list, click here. 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 traveling from these countries are exempt from the ban.

Travelers to Oman must undergo a COVID-19 PCR test within 72 hours before their arrival and download the "Tarassud+" mobile application before entering the country. An additional PCR test will be conducted 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.

A nightly 22:00-04:00 curfew remains in place until further notice. During curfew hours, all non-essential travel and commercial activity will be restricted.

Authorities closed all land border crossings, July 6 until further notice.

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