Qatar: Authorities to reintroduce limited COVID-19 travel restrictions for travelers from China in early January /update 53

Event

Qatar's Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) has announced it will reintroduce COVID-19 international restrictions for travelers from China from 18:00 Jan. 3. All travelers entering Qatar from China, regardless of their vaccination status, will be required to present a negative PCR test result taken no more than two days before the departure.

Additionally, previous measures remain in place. Visitors and residents will need to present their health status on the Ehteraz mobile application when entering public and private healthcare facilities in Qatar. Individuals who contract COVID-19 are subject to a 10-day isolation period divided into two five-day phases. The first phase consists of self-isolation; Qataris can self-isolate at their residences, while travelers must quarantine in their hotels. During the second phase, such individuals must wear facemasks when interacting with others.

Qatari authorities lifted the nation's requirement that facemasks be worn in closed public spaces, except on public transportation and in medical facilities on Sept. 1. However, employees whose work requires them to interact with customers must continue to wear masks.

Authorities could introduce new restrictions or amend existing ones depending on disease activity over 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.

Resources

World Health Organization (WHO)
Qatari Ministry of Public Health