Qatar: Authorities to reimpose some COVID-19 restrictions nationwide from Feb. 4 /update 22

Event

Qatari authorities will reimpose some restrictions nationwide from Feb. 4 to curb the rise in COVID-19 cases. Authorities will reduce the maximum indoor capacity of restaurants with the "Qatar Clean" Program certificate to 30 percent and maximum outdoor capacity to 50 percent. Food courts in shopping centers and malls must close and allow only takeaway and delivery orders. Additionally, authorities will limit the capacity at wholesale markets to 30 percent.

Other measures that remain in place from previous phases include:

• Public transport and metro services operating at 30 percent capacity.

• Cinemas, theaters, gyms, and health clubs are open at 30 percent capacity.

• Malls and shopping centers are open at normal hours with a maximum of 50 percent capacity.

• Offices should maintain the capacity of employees at 80 percent. Meetings in offices are limited to 15 people.

• Private health clinics are open at full capacity.

• 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.

International Travel Restrictions
Only nationals, permanent residents, and those with pre-approved entry permits can enter Qatar. Authorities have extended the mandatory quarantine requirements of one week for all arrivals into the country through Feb. 15. 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. Individuals who have not obtained a COVID-19 test 48 hours before arrival have to take the test upon arriving at Doha International Airport (DOH). Authorities will conduct a second COVID-19 test six days after arrival.

Additionally, following the discovery of a new strain of COVID-19, 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.

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