Phase 4 of lifting COVID-19 restrictions split into 2 phases | 1st phase to start from September 1

Phase 4 of lifting COVID-19 restrictions split into 2 phases |  1st phase of Phase 4 to start from September 1

The Supreme Committee for Crisis Management thanks both citizens and residents for their commitment to adhering to the precautionary measures to combat Coronavirus (COVID-19), which has contributed to limiting the spread of the virus. As the State of Qatar moves on to phase four, it is important for the community to continue to follow procedures to ensure that efforts are successful and the nation can fully reopen.

Based on Qatar’s public health indicators and the Coronavirus (COVID-19) infection rate in the community, it has been decided to split phase four into two phases.

The first phase will commence on 1 September, and the situation will be assessed on an ongoing basis, including the re-imposing and/or lifting of some restrictions based on developments mid-September. The second phase will commence at the beginning of the third week of September. The first phase will include the following:

  • Reopening of all mosques in the country to perform daily and Friday prayers, provided that precautionary measures are followed. Toilets and ablution facilities remain closed.
  • Continuing to follow the Council of Ministers’ decision, which limits the capacity in workplaces to a maximum of 80% of employees in both public and private sectors.
  • Allowing gatherings of a maximum of 15 people indoors and 30 people outdoors.
  • Allowing weddings with a maximum of 40 people indoors and 80 people outdoors, provided that precautionary measures are followed, including activating the Ehteraz application, maintaining a distance of two meters between tables with a maximum of 5 people per table, and avoiding handshakes and kisses while greeting. Individuals holding parties at home as well as managers of wedding venues are required to keep records of the contact information of all invitees.
  • Opening of cinemas and theaters with a capacity of 15%, provided that precautionary measures are followed and that only people who are 18 years and above are allowed entry.
  • Playgrounds and leisure centres remain closed.
  • Allowing local exhibitions with a capacity of 30%, according to the procedures which will be announced by the National Tourism Council.
  • Resuming metro and public transport services with a capacity of 30% according to the procedures which will be announced by the Ministry of Transport and Communications.
  • Continuing to allow personal boats and yacht rentals with a capacity of 30%, including boat workers.
  • Continuing to follow Qatar’s travel policy. The Ministry of Public Health will continue to update the list of low-risk countries periodically.
  • Continuing the operation of driving schools with a capacity of 50%.
  • Continuing the suspension of summer camps as well as the use of sports equipment in public parks.
  • Allowing audiences to attend sporting events with a capacity of 20% indoors and 30% outdoors, according to procedures which will be announced by the relevant authorities.
  • Allowing private health clinics to resume work in full capacity.
  • Continuing normal working hours at malls while keeping capacity to 50%, and opening food courts in malls with a capacity of 30%. Allowing children to enter malls.
  • Allowing the increase in restaurants capacity starting with 30%, according to the procedures which will be set by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
  • Allowing souks to operate with a 75% capacity and raising the capacity at wholesale markets to 50%.
  • Allowing museums and public libraries to operate in full capacity and normal hours provided that all precautionary measures are followed.
  • Continuing the work of health clubs, gyms and public swimming pools at half capacity (50%) and allowing massage and sauna services at a capacity of 30% in approved facilities, as well as opening indoor swimming pools at a capacity of 30%.
  • Continuing the suspension of home beauty, barber, massage and fitness training services.
  • Continuing the work of private education and training centers at a capacity of 50%.
  • Resuming cleaning and hospitality services in workplaces at a capacity of 30% as well as allowing the resumption of these services at homes.

The Supreme Committee for Crisis Management emphasises that the evaluation of lifting further measures depends on the cooperation of all and the commitment to following precautionary measures, including wearing masks while outside, washing hands, maintain a safe distance, and activating the Ehteraz application.

(Source: gco.gov.qa)

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Hamad International Airport implements newly modified procedures to enter Qatar based on the categorization of arriving passengers, following the gradual lifting of COVID-19 restrictions across Qatar

Hamad International Airport implements newly modified procedures to enter Qatar based on the categorization of arriving passengers

Hamad International Airport (HIA) implements newly modified procedures to enter Qatar based on the categorization of arriving passengers

Hamad International Airport (HIA) implements newly modified procedures to enter Qatar based on the categorization of arriving passengers, following the gradual lifting of COVID-19 restrictions across Qatar. HIA has customised its procedures based on the categorization of arriving passengers, hence ensuring a smooth return to the country. Following has been announced on HIA Website:

  • Group One: Qatari citizens, their spouses and children, permanent residency holders.
  • Group Two: includes vulnerable passengers that have certain identified medical conditions or are aged 55 and above.
  • Group Three: passengers arriving from ‘low-risk countries’
  • Group Four: passengers arriving from ‘high-risk countries’

Please visit the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) website to see the latest list of countries classified as high and low-risk of COVID-19.

EHTERAZ Mobile App & Thermal Screening

All arriving passengers will be thermally screened at the airport. Passengers must have the EHTERAZ mobile application downloaded and installed on a smartphone which requires a SIM card. Volunteers are available to help set up passengers with the EHTERAZ App. Smartphones and SIM cards are also available for purchase at the airport.

Health Assessment Form & Quarantine Pledge Agreement

All passengers must also fill out a health assessment form and sign a quarantine pledge agreement, preferably filled prior to arrival into Doha and submitted upon arrival.

Quarantine Hotel | High Risk Countries

Passengers arriving from ‘high-risk countries’ will proceed to immigration whilst presenting their hotel booking to the immigration officer. Once all arrival formalities have been completed, passengers will be transported to their quarantine hotel with Discover Qatar.

Swab Testing | Home Quarantine

All other arriving passengers will be diverted to designated airport testing facilities where they will receive swab tests. Once testing is complete, passengers will then proceed to immigration for entry processing. Those passengers can use private transportation to their home quarantine. The airport’s taxi pavilion is also available.

Other COVID-19 Safety Procedures

HIA has planned and executed comprehensive COVID-19 safety procedures, keeping every passenger journey in mind whether they are arriving, departing, or transferring through the five-star airport.

To ensure the health and wellbeing of its staff and passengers, HIA introduced a series of unprecedented measures including the implementation of robotics and advanced thermal screening helmets.

The five-star airport is keen on the safety of its passengers and employees and are continuously cleaning and disinfecting all high contact areas every 10-15 minutes. Hand sanitisers are also readily available for passengers at key locations across the airport. The airport maintains 1.5m social distancing across all passenger touchpoints around the airport, through floor markings, signage, and distance seating.

Source: dohahamadairport.com | Image Credit: @HIAQatar

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Phase 3 of the gradual lifting of COVID-19 restrictions begins today (July 28th 2020) in Qatar

Phase 3 of the gradual lifting of COVID-19 restrictions begins today (July 28th 2020) in Qatar

Phase 3 of the gradual lifting of COVID-19 restrictions begins today (July 28th 2020) in Qatar. New guidelines, procedures and precautionary measures has been issues for the third phase including procedures to barbershops, gyms, some restaurants to reopen in Qatar.

Based on #Qatar’s public health indicators, including the steady decrease in the number of daily active cases, the Supreme Committee for Crisis Management announced that the third phase of the gradual reopening will begin on 28 July, rather than 1 August. (https://www.gco.gov.qa/en/top-news/statement-by-the-supreme-committee-for-crisis-management-on-phase-three-of-the-gradual-lifting-of-coronavirus-restrictions/)

Gatherings:

  • Medium-Scale gatherings of 10 people indoors and 30 people outdoors
  • Opening of selected mosques for Friday and Eid prayers

Business and Leisure:

  • 80% of employees allowed in the workplace with strict health precautions (with employees to begin work immediately after the Eid holiday)
  • Opening of all malls with fill hours, maintaining its 50% capacity
  • Opening of Souks between 30-75% capacity and wholesale markets at 30% capacity
  • Continuing the opening of restaurants, including restaurants and coffee shops in malls (except for shared food courts)
  • Opening of health clubs and gyms at 50% capacity with Jacuzzis, saunas and indoor pools still closed
  • Opening of beauty parlors and hairdressers at 30% capacity

Transport:

  • Priority passengers such as residence permit holders, will be allowed to return as of 1 August, with required quarantine precautions in place
  • Opening od driving schools at 50% capacity

Outdoor and Professional Sports:

  • Amateur and non-amateur sports, trainings, and competitions with no spectators and up to 40 people

Education and Health:

  • 80% capacity at selected private healthcare facilities
  • Opening of nurseries and childcare facilities at 50% capacity

(Source: https://twitter.com/GCOQatar/status/1287471372231417856)

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QID holders who wanted to return back to Qatar during Phase Three, beginning 1st August 2020 | All you need to know

QID holders who wanted to return back to Qatar during Phase Three, beginning 1st August 2020 | All you need to know

The gradual lifting of Phase One Covid-19 restrictions by Qatar beginning June 15, mentioned that passengers making essential trips out of country would be required to undergo mandatory 2-week hotel quarantine at designated hotels. The communiqué also made it very clear that the cost of the quarantine will have to be borne by the passenger.

However, several questions were raised regarding the situation of residents who wanted to return back to Qatar during Phase Three, beginning 1st August 2020.

QID holders returning from 1 August – 15 September: QID holders will not be able to board a flight to Qatar without first receiving authorisation to travel to Qatar, and then by also providing confirmation of a 14 day government approved welcome home package reservation.

QID holders are advised not to book a quarantine package until approval to return to Qatar has been confirmed. Details of the approval process will be published when the eligibility and guidelines are confirmed by the relevant authorities.

Discover Qatar, the destination management division of Qatar Airways and a partner of National Tourism Council have posted in their website, what are the necessary quarantine conditions that would apply to those residents who are ‘permitted’ to arrive into Qatar.

Source Credit: Discover Qatar

Please do not book a Welcome Home Package until you have approval to travel to Qatar.

Until 31 July arrivals into Qatar are only permitted for Qatari Nationals, their travelling companions, those with a Permanent Resident Card or other exceptionally approved Visa holders. From 1 August pre-approved QID resident permit holders will also be able to travel to Qatar. We are awaiting more details from the relevant authorities about the pre-approval process.

If you wish to be informed of the latest updates, we recommend that you sign up to our e-mail newsletter. Alternatively please come back to this page regularly to check for updates.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Eligibility – Who is eligible to return to/enter Qatar, on which dates, and under what conditions.

Who needs to go into quarantine upon arrival into Qatar, and can I self-isolate or book my own hotel?

All permitted arrivals into Qatar must go into Government approved hotels to quarantine for a 14 day period upon arrival into Qatar. The following is a summary of who is currently permitted to arrive into Qatar and what quarantine conditions apply (subject to change so please check out the rules and conditions on regular basis):

For Qatari Nationals, their travel companions, those with a Permanent Resident Card or other eligible Visa holders returning to Doha from 15 June – 15 September:

All travellers departing from Qatar will need to book and pay for one of the approved quarantine hotel packages for a period of 14 days, which must be booked before departure from Qatar, if the return date is planned on or before 15 September. Check in at HIA will not be permitted without a confirmed quarantine reservation, if arrival back into Qatar is before 15 September. Eligible travellers currently outside Qatar will also need to book and pay for one of the approved quarantine hotel packages for a period of 14 days if arriving back into Doha on or before 15 September. Bookings can be made at Qatar Airways Holidays in partnership with Discover Qatar. Only Qatari Nationals, their travelling companions, those with a Permanent Resident Card or other eligible Visa holders, will be permitted to arrive into Qatar before 1 August 2020.

QID holders returning from 1 August – 15 September: 

QID holders will not be able to board a flight to Qatar without first receiving authorisation to travel to Qatar, and then by also providing confirmation of a 14 day government approved welcome home package reservation.

QID holders are advised not to book a quarantine package until approval to return to Qatar has been confirmed. Details of the approval process will be published when the eligibility and guidelines are confirmed by the relevant authorities. Please check back regularly to this page for updates.

Can all QID Holders return on 1 August?

No, only QID holders from selected “low risk” countries will be permitted to travel from 1 August, and pre-authorisation to enter Qatar will be required for all QID holders. Further details and a list of approved “low risk” countries will be provided when available.

Can I self-quarantine at home?

No, as of now, and as per Ministry of Public Health regulations, the 14 day quarantine is required at an approved and designated quarantine hotel. Check the rules and regulations on a regular basis for future updates.

What if my Qatar ID has expired?

If your QID has expired whilst you have been outside of Qatar you may be permitted to re-enter Qatar to renew your QID, after you been approved to travel and have successfully completed your 14 day quarantine.

Can I fly with an airline other than Qatar Airways?

Yes, but the same entry conditions will be present for Qatari Nationals and QID holders.

If I have already had a positive test for Covid-19, can I travel?

No, once you have recovered and tested negative you can travel, by adhering to the entry and quarantine requirements already outlined.

How to book – to enable a smooth return/entry to Qatar, Discover Qatar outlines the official approved booking process.

Where can I make my hotel booking?

For all other permitted arrivals, quarantine bookings can be made at Qatar Airways Holidays in partnership with Discover Qatar.

Can I cancel or amend the booking?

Yes, bookings can be amended, up to 24 hours prior to your arrival, without any penalty. There is no refund for any unused quarantine reservations or if you fail to check in on the date of your arrival.

Can I choose the Hotel?

Yes, you will be able to choose between different star rated hotels available, depending upon your preferred hotel category and budget.

How much will it cost?

Welcome Home package rates and options will be available from 15 June. If eligible, check availability for your chosen dates at Qatar Airways Holidays in partnership with Discover Qatar.

Can I book direct with a hotel?

No, you will need to make your booking directly with Qatar Airways Holidays in partnership with Discover Qatar for a stay at an approved quarantine hotel.

Your safety and comfort are the highest priority – upon arrival and at your hotel.

What will happen on arrival at the airport?

Upon arrival at HIA, you will be directed to a transfer to take you to the hotel.

How will I go from the Airport to the Hotel?

A compulsory one way transfer will be provided.

Is there any limit to how much luggage I can bring in the transfer which is provided?

Luggage space is limited to one piece of checked in luggage and one piece of hand luggage per passenger. Additional charges may apply if you have excess luggage that cannot be accommodated into the transfer vehicle provided.

What steps are in place to ensure safety in the hotels?

Your hotel will be compliant with the Qatar Clean program. Qatar Clean is a collaborative effort by the National Tourism Council, Ministry of Public Health, and the hospitality and tourism sectors. The program has been carefully designed to align with best practices and expert protocols to ensure remarkable levels of cleanliness, hygiene and safety for our guests and front line workers. For more information please visit www.qatarclean.com

What happens if I test positive for Covid-19 at any time of quarantine?

You will be directed to follow the instructions provided by MOPH staff at the hotel.

Can I share the room?

Only with direct relatives. A maximum of 2 adults and 1 child 6 years or under may share a room.

Will I be able to have contact with family members or friends who are based in Qatar, at any time during quarantine?

No. Physical contact is not allowed.

Will I be able to have contact with family members or friends at any time during quarantine (where they are also in quarantine)?

No, only unless you will be sharing a room.

What if we are a large group and / or have specific requirements?

Please call or email Discover Qatar with your request and we will be happy to see if this can be accommodated.

Email: [email protected]
Telephone: +974 4423 7999

Image used is just for representation purpose only.



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EHTERAZ app update allows registration with visa number for non-QID holders

Download Ehteraz App:

EHTERAZ App on Google Play (For Android Users) https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.moi.covid19&hl=en
EHTERAZ App on Apple App Store (For iOS users) https://apps.apple.com/us/app/ehteraz/id1507150431

Qatar’s plans to ease COVID-19 restrictions in four phases beginning June 15, 2020

Qatar’s plans to ease COVID-19 restrictions in four phases beginning June 15, 2020

In a press conference held on the 8th of June 2020, Her Excellency Lolwah bint Rashid Al Khater, Official Spokesperson for the Supreme Committee for Crisis Management, announced Qatar’s plans to ease COVID-19 restrictions in four phases beginning June 15, 2020 (Phase 1) and Phase 4 by 1st of September.

The gradual lifting of lock-down restrictions:

  • Qatar is one of the countries with the lowest number of COVID-19 deaths.
  • Gradual lifting of restrictions will be carried out in the State of Qatar through 4 phases with all the necessary precautionary measures.
  • Stringent assessment will be carried out during each Phase. Moving from one phase to other phase will be based on the indications measured during the assessment.
  • Possible to re-impose restrictions or delay of moving to next phase in the event of non-compliance and if assessment indicators are negative

Four Phases of Gradual lifting of restrictions are as follows:

  • Phase 1 – June 15
  • Phase 2- July 1
  • Phase 3 – August 1
  • Phase 4 – September 1

 



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Revised list of repatriation flights to India from Doha | June 2020 Schedule

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SWADES Skill Card: Skill mapping of overseas returning citizens by Government of India

EHTERAZ app update allows registration with visa number for non-QID holders

Register on the Indian Embassy website for repatriation before it is closed | Embassy of India, Doha

Download Ehteraz App:

EHTERAZ App on Google Play (For Android Users) https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.moi.covid19&hl=en
EHTERAZ App on Apple App Store (For iOS users) https://apps.apple.com/us/app/ehteraz/id1507150431
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