Oman to reopen borders amid new coronavirus strain scare

Oman has called off the suspension of departure from and entry into the Sultanate of Oman via land, air and sea borders from 29 December.

In view of the new coronavirus strain, the country had closed its borders last week.

As per the new entry requirements issued by the Oman’s Supreme Committee, travellers to Oman will be required to present a negative test report at the airport and possess health insurance.

The test has to be conducted within 72 hours of their entry into the country.

Furthermore, all travellers will be quarantined for seven days and will be required to take another test on their eighth day of stay in Oman.

This comes after the country announced the first phase of vaccinations for its citizens.

On the other hand, Saudi Arabia has extended its commercial flights suspension by at least one week.

In a tweet, Saudi General Authority of Civil Aviation stated: ”An official source in the Ministry of Interior said: Extending the suspension of international flights and entering the Kingdom through land and seaports for another week.”

However, the country will permit flights in “exceptional cases”, reported the official Saudi Press Agency (SPA).

In addition, cargo movement will be permitted and foreigners will be allowed to leave the kingdom.

On 21 December, nations across the Middle East had closed their borders because of the new strain which was discovered in the UK a few days back.