Muscat: The authorities in Oman have temporarily eased the night travel restrictions which were imposed in view of the rising COVID-19 cases in the country. However, the curbs on commercial activities at night would continue till the start of the month of Ramzan. In a related development, the Supreme Committee of the country has imposed a ban on the entry of people from other countries with a visiting visa from noon on Thursday.
The Supreme Committee has also banned the functioning of business establishments and movement of people and vehicles from 9 pm to 4 am during Ramzan considering the COVID-19 situation. The decision was taken after analyzing the data related to the pandemic cases from all the governorates in the country and the capacity of hospitals.
Similarly, there is a ban on ‘Taraweeh’ prayers in mosques and ‘Iftar’ meets in mosques, tents and other public places.
Entry restrictions
Following the ban on entry of people with a visiting visa, Oman would allow only local citizens, people of other nationalities holding a residence card and those with a new work and family visa to travel to the country from abroad. This rule would be effective at all the land, sea and air entry points in the country.
People possessing a visiting, tourist or express visa will not be allowed entry to the Gulf nation till further notice. At the same time, foreigners who have been sanctioned with a residence visa before April 5 can travel to Oman, says a circular issued by the Civil Aviation authorities to airline companies.
The Oman government has also decided to halt issuing new work, family, tourist and express visas till a further announcement. But, those who had received the work and family-joining visa before April 5 can travel to the country, said an official of the Royal Oman Police.
