Amid the concerns over a fast-spreading new variant of Coronavirus, the Omani government has decided to reopen its airport and borders from December 29 to travellers. Saudi Arabia has also decided to lift the ban imposed on international flights in the wake of a new strain of Covid-19.
Before entering Oman, the commuters have to carry a Covid negative test result conducted within 72 hours. Upon arrival, every traveller has to go into seven-day quarantine and should conduct a Covid test on the eighth day. According to the country’s supreme committee, all travellers must have health insurance.
Meanwhile, reportedly through an official circular, the Saudi Civil Aviation Authority has confirmed its decision to lift the travel restriction imposed on international flights. Flights will be permitted to carry foreigners from Saudi to other countries, but Saudi citizens will not be allowed to travel outside the country. However, the interior ministry of Saudi Arabia has extended a ban on entry by air, land, and sea for another one week. The ministry said that they are evaluating the current situation while allowing entry for exceptional cases and non-citizens to leave the kingdom.
On December 21, countries across the Middle East had closed borders over the spread of a new mutant discovered in the UK. For a week, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Oman had restricted international flights and closed borders.