Oman: Authorities ban travel from 10 countries, including Brazil and Nigera, to combat COVID-19 from Feb. 25 /update 40

Event

Authorities in Oman have announced that they will ban travelers from 10 countries from Feb. 25 through at least March 10 as part of the nation's efforts to combat new variants of COVID-19. The countries affected by the new directive are Lebanon, Sudan, South Africa, Brazil, Nigeria, Tanzania, Ghana, Sierra Leone, and Ethiopia. The measure also applies to travelers from any nation who have transited through one of these countries within the 14 days prior to travel to Oman. Diplomats, health workers, and Omani citizens, as well as family members of such persons are exempt from the ban.

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. Release from 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. 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 through at least Feb. 26; only fuel stations, pharmacies, and health institutions will be permitted to operate during curfew hours. Beaches and public parks have closed nationwide from through at least Feb. 25. The number of customers permitted entry at public and private businesses nationwide has been reduced to 50 percent 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.

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.

Resources

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