Oman: Authorities relax COVID-19-related domestic and international entry restrictions June 2 /update 51

Event

Omani authorities have announced the relaxation of several domestic COVID-19 measures as of June 2. Mosques with a capacity of under 100 people may reopen for the five daily prayers only and shops, cafés, and restaurants may reopen at 50-percent capacity. Businesses are no longer prohibited from operating between the hours of 20:00-04:00 and children below 12 years are now permitted to access these businesses. Exhibition and wedding halls may reopen at 30-percent capacity, with a maximum of 300 people in larger spaces. Outdoor sports activities may also resume; indoor sports centers may reopen at 50-percent capacity.

Select entry restrictions have also been relaxed. Land borders have reopened. Omanis and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) residents are free to move between Oman and GCC states.

Entry bans have been extended until further notice for travelers from Bangladesh, Brazil, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines, Sierra Leone, Sudan, Tanzania, and the UK. As of June 5, at 14:00, travelers from Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam will no longer be allowed to enter the country. Those with permission to enter Oman who have visited the aforementioned countries within the previous 14-days will be denied entry. Diplomats, health workers, Omani citizens, and family members of such persons traveling from these countries are exempt from the ban.

All travelers to Oman must undergo a COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test within 72 hours before their arrival. Moreover, all incoming travelers must download the "Tarassud+" mobile application before entering the country. Authorities will conduct an additional PCR test upon arrival, with those remaining in Oman taking another such test on the eighth day of their stay. All incoming travelers must also 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.

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