Wednesday, February 12
12:41 PM

Expats thankful for free tests, treatment

11 Apr 2020

As per directives issued by His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, COVID-19 tests and treatment are absolutely free for all communities of the sultanate, including expatriates irrespective of nationalities, said H E Dr Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Obaid al Sa’eedi, Minister of Health. 

In reply to a query from Muscat Daily, H E Dr Sa’eedi emphasised that Oman is treating all patients irrespective of their nationalities. “The tests and treatment are free for all expatriates. We appeal to the ambassadors of all countries to convey this message to their citizens in Oman so that we can reach out to them. From Saturday (April 11), authorities are conducting mass tests for all especially at the virus outbreak focus points like Muttrah. Health authorities will inform of the test venues in different languages. 

“Those coming for the tests will not be asked for their resident cards. The goal is to have maximum number of people, including expatriates, face tests. I thank all the residents of Oman for their support and cooperation in the fight against the virus outbreak.” Meanwhile, many expatriates in Oman hailed the move. 

“Free treatment offered to all including expatriates which is not normally the case is something great. I thank His Majesty the Sultan and the Ministry of Health for the initiative. This shows how Oman looks after not only Omanis but also expatriates living here,” said Anwar Abdullah, a Tanzanian living in Oman. 

J Vijay, an Indian resident in Oman, too thanked the authorities for what they are doing for expatriates.  “I know there are some expatriates who are undergoing treatment at hospitals here for free. This is what humanity needs at the moment. Love and care to all is appreciated,” he said. 

H E Dr Sa’eedi assured the public that all essential and cargo flight services are continuing as usual.  “We have sufficient stocks of medical supplies for the current situation,” he said.  Also included in free testing and treatment are expatriates who have no resident cards and whose resident cards have expired.

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