Oman Suspends Friday Prayers over Coronavirus Fears

The Omani Ministry of Religious Affairs decided on Monday to suspend Friday prayers  as a precaution against coronavirus.

"Oman also has recently suspended the issuance of tourist visas from March 15 for a period of 30 days and will not allow cruise ships to dock at the sultanate's ports during this period," the foreign ministry said on Twitter, citing an ad hoc government committee to contain the spread of the coronavirus outbreak.

"Sport activities will also be suspended during this period," it said.

The following decisions were made for Oman:

1. Stopping entry of non-Omanis to the sultanate from all land, sea, and airports, except for citizens of the GCC states

2. Quarantine procedure will be applied to all people coming to the sultanate from land, sea and air routes including Omanis

3. Closure of public parks

4. Cancellation of Friday prayers

5. No social gatherings such as weddings and attending funerals

6. Royal Hospital Oman will close until further notice, for the treatment services provided for routine, non-urgent cases whose delay in appointments does not directly affect their health will be suspended temporarily until further notice

The Supreme Committee said that the decisions are being implemented from Tuesday corresponding to March 17.

It called on everyone to follow instructions at the inpidual and group levels.

The Omani Health Ministry on Sunday, confirmed a new case of the novel coronavirus, bringing the total number of patients in the Sultanate to 21.

It added that the patient is currently receiving treatment in hospital, pointing out that 18 out of the 21 cases have been linked to patients who had previously traveled to Iran and Italy, with two other confirmed cases under ‘epidemiological investigation’.

The ministry has urged all those under quarantine to adhere to procedures for isolation and avoid public places or places of worship. They also issue a reminder to the general public to follow best practices for hygiene to prevent the spread of COVID-19 such as frequent hand-washing and taking precautions when coughing or sneezing.