Covid-19: Oman lifts movement ban, commercial activities resume with some restrictions

Oman lifted its nightly curfew on the movement of people and vehicles starting Saturday, May 15, as it eased restrictions to stop the spread of Covid-19.

The sultanate’s Supreme Committee tasked with combating Covid-19 revised the protocols in the country due to the improving situation.

Oman had banned the movement of people and vehicles between 7pm and 4am from May 8 until May 15 and also banned commercial activity during the day.

Read: Covid-19: Oman issues new restrictions, bans Eid gatherings

As per the new decision, commercial outlets are now allowed to resume activities, however customers will not be permitted ‪between 8pm and 4am‬. Home delivery and handing over items to customers outside outlets will be allowed during that period. Shops selling food are also exempt from the ban, Oman News Agency reported.

The Supreme Committee also said that the decision to limit the number of visitors to commercial complexes, trade outlets and restaurants will remain at 50 per cent of capacity.

Gyms and sports clubs will remain closed for now.

Meanwhile the committee also announced that employees will be allowed to return to government offices at 50 per cent capacity, provided that those not attending physically can perform their tasks online.

It also urged the private sector to implement online work plans and cut down the number of employees required to attend the workplace.

In a statement, the committee voiced its appreciation for the efforts exerted by medical teams. “They are commendable efforts that will yield fruit when all members of society campaign to make this experience a success,” it said.

It also acknowledged the role of the Royal Oman Police and the Public Prosecution Department for punishing offenders who breached the precautionary measures.

The committee “expressed its delight at the gradual decline in the number of patients admitted to hospital wards and intensive care units in different parts of the country, noting that this progress would not have been achieved had it not been for the cooperation of all members of society and their commitment to rules and decisions”, the report stated.