Oman: Authorities to ease some COVID-19 restrictions from Aug. 21 /update 58

Event

Authorities have announced plans to ease some domestic COVID-19-related restrictions. The nightly 22:00-04:00 curfew will be lifted from Aug. 21. From the same date, shopping malls, restaurants, and other commercial establishments will be able to operate beyond 20:00 daily as earlier restrictions on their operating hours end.

As of Aug. 17, travelers arriving from Iran and Iraq are required to quarantine for at least eight days. A ban on flights from Iran and Iraq remains in effect; however, special need-based flights from both countries to Oman continue to operate. Entry bans also remain in effect 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 must present proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to their arrival in Oman. Travelers must also download the "Tarassud+" mobile application before entry.

An additional PCR test will be conducted upon arrival, with those remaining in Oman required to take another COVID-19 test on the eighth day of their stay. All incoming travelers must 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.

Authorities closed all land border crossings from 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