Oman: Government tightens COVID-19 restrictions, imposes mandatory quarantine for all arriving travelers from Feb. 15 due to increased infections /update 39

Event

Authorities in Oman have tightened several COVID-19-related restrictions as part of the nation's efforts to combat a recent surge in cases. Effective Feb. 15, all travelers arriving in the country must submit to a mandatory institutional quarantine for at least seven days. The quarantine will be at the individual’s expense and applies to persons arriving via land, sea, or air. Travelers may reserve their quarantine accommodations at any hotel in the country; alternatively, they may select one of the hotels in Muscat that authorities have designated for this purpose, i.e. the Swiss-Belinn Muscat, Ibis, Secure Inn, Sheraton, Tulip Inn, and Somerset Panorama Muscat. The quarantine period is for a minimum of seven days; the end of the quarantine is contingent upon a negative COVID-19 test result.

The closure of the sultanate's land borders has been extended until further notice to stem the spread of COVID-19 and its new variants. The closure does not apply to commercial truck traffic. Omani citizens who are stranded outside Oman and wish to return via the country’s land borders may do so during the Feb. 11-21 grace period; however, the quarantine requirement and other public health measures still apply. After Feb. 21, no travelers will be permitted entry via the land borders.

Nevertheless, Oman's air and sea borders remain open. All arriving travelers must produce proof of having tested negative for COVID-19 using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test taken no more than 72 hours prior to arrival. Those traveling by air must also take a second PCR test when they arrive in Oman and a third test after seven days of quarantine. Moreover, all incoming travelers must download the "Tarassud+" mobile application before entering Oman. 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.

Domestically, a nightly 1900-0600 curfew has been imposed in the Ash Sharqiyah North Governorate Feb. 12-26; only fuel stations, pharmacies, and health institutions will be permitted to operate during curfew hours. Beaches and public parks have closed nationwide from Feb. 11-25. The number of customers permitted entry at public and private businesses nationwide has been reduced to 50 percent from Feb. 12 until further notice. Social gatherings are prohibited.

Nationwide, companies are allowed to operate with 50 percent of their workforce onsite, provided they can comply with social distancing and other safety guidelines. Domestic public transportation is operating. The use of protective facemasks in public spaces and on public transportation remains mandatory.

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

Resources

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