A sigh of relief as expatriate families exempted from hotel isolation

In a step towards easing restrictions on expatriate families travelling to Oman, the Ministry of Health (MoH) has exempted them from institutional health quarantine.

“Expatriate families coming to the sultanate with their children aged 18 and below are exempted from institutional health quarantine; however, they should abide by home isolation. Families must register their names in Tarassud app and wear an electronic tracking bracelet,” said an official at MoH.

The authorities on April 6 announced exemption for all Omani citizens from institutional quarantine.

The official added, “There is no need for institutional quarantine for all citizens and expat families. The latest circular was issued on April 7 from the Ministry of Health and has been sent to the Civil Aviation Authority.”

Speaking to Muscat Daily, Hisham Talaat, a teacher said, “The best decision was made as the expatriates who have families were in a serious problem regarding the high cost of hotel reservation, as well as the presence of children with them stuck in a hotel room for over seven days. This decision will allow a lot of expatriate families to travel to their home countries and spend the vacation well without thinking of financial burdens.”

Dr John Philips Mathew, an educational officer, said, “This is a wise decision.”

Welcoming the move, Abdul Hadi Mustafa, a private sector employee, said, “The decision will help many families, especially large families. Some families have been postponing travel to their home countries because of the added financial burden of booking a hotel on their return. They must also commit to home quarantine and adhere to health measures.”

Fathy Najm, a private sector employee, said, “I think that everyone understands the seriousness of COVID-19, and there is a great awareness among residents and citizens about the need to adhere to measures to limit the spread of the virus. The decision is very good and fair.”