Oman: Authorities to reopen all air, land, and sea borders from Dec. 29 /update 34

Event

Omani authorities announced that the country will reopen its air, land, and sea borders from Dec. 29 as part of measures to ease coronavirus disease (COVID-19) restrictions. All individuals have to obtain a negative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test at least 72 hours prior to arrival while those traveling by air will have to take another PCR test upon arrival at Oman's airports.

All arrivals must download the "Tarassud+" mobile application before entering Oman and agree to quarantine for seven days while wearing a tracking hand bracelet. All foreigners, with the exception of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nationals, are required to have international health insurance that covers COVID-19 expenses for the duration of their stay.

Other COVID-19 measures in effect and recent changes are included below:

• Restrictions on several commercial and industrial activities were lifted Dec. 1.

• The use of protective facemasks in public spaces and transportation remains mandatory.

• Companies are allowed to operate at 50-percent workforce capacity, provided they can comply with social distancing and other safety guidelines.

• Domestic public transportation has resumed.

Authorities could introduce new preventive measures or further ease restrictions depending on disease activity in the coming days and weeks.

Context

Oman's travel restrictions and preventive measures are similar to actions other governments are taking globally in response to the spread of COVID-19. COVID-19 is a viral respiratory disease caused by infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus (previously known as 2019-nCoV). Symptoms occur 1-14 days following exposure (average of 3-7 days). These symptoms include fever, fatigue, cough, difficulty breathing, sometimes worsening to pneumonia and kidney failure - especially in those with underlying medical conditions. On March 11, the WHO declared the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak a pandemic.

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.

Emphasize basic health precautions, especially frequent handwashing with soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are unavailable. Practice good coughing/sneezing etiquette (i.e., covering coughs and sneezes with a disposable tissue, maintaining distance from others, and washing hands). There is no evidence that the influenza vaccine, antibiotics, or antiviral medications will prevent this disease, highlighting the importance of diligent basic health precautions.

Resources

World Health Organization (WHO)
Ministry of Health
Ministry of Information
SalamAir
Tarassud+ App