The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has exempted certain categories of passengers arriving in the country from pre-confirmed hotel reservations and institutional isolation. 

In reference to a circular issued on February 11, 2021, the CAA clarified that children under the age of 16 and the elderly over 60 are exempted from the decision, besides a few other categories. 

‘Diplomats working at foreign diplomatic missions accredited to the sultanate, and visiting diplomats and their families are spared from institutional isolation,’ the CAA said in a statement addressed to airlines operating in Oman.

The CAA stated that airlines crews are also exempted from the precautionary measures issued by the Ministry of Health. ‘Sick passengers who obtain an exemption in writing from the concerned health authorities due to their medical circumstances are also spared,’ the CAA statement said.

The exemption includes holders of permits for private institutional isolation centres that are pre-approved by the Relief and Shelter Sector. ‘All other requirements as stipulated in the previous circular remain valid,’ the CAA stated.

Toll-free No 1099 to report violations

To strictly enforce decisions of the Supreme Committee in charge of dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic, the Royal Oman Police (ROP) has set up a special toll-free number to report violations. 

In a statement, ROP said, ‘To report violators of the Supreme Committee decisions, please call the toll-free No 1099.’

Meanwhile, Dhahirah Governorate Police arrested an expatriate for violating the decisions of the Supreme Committee. The individual violated institutional quarantine, and legal measures have been taken against him.