Oman extends lockdown ahead of Ramadan as coronavirus cases surge

Covid-19 cases in Oman have been rising despite a vaccination campaign that began in December.

1 min read

05 April, 2021

Commercial activities will be shut down and restrictions will be placed on the movement [Getty]

Oman has extended a national lockdown following an increase of reported coronavirus cases, the country’s Supreme Committee on Covid-19 announced on Monday, ahead of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan.

All commercial activities will be shut down and restrictions will be placed on the movement of people and vehicles between 8pm and 5am from Thursday until the first day of Ramadan, the statement said.

During Ramadan, the hours of the curfew will be changed to 9pm to 4am, the statement added. Tarawih prayers, which are additional ritual prayers performed during Ramadan, will not be held in mosques this year. Gatherings, including mass iftars at mosques or private settings will also be banned.

Only residents and nationals will be allowed to enter the sultanate from Thursday.

Covid-19 cases in Oman have been rising despite a vaccination campaign that began in December. The sultanate recorded 3,139 cases on Monday and 10 deaths, according to data collated by Worldometer.

A total of 1,722 people died of the virus in the country since the beginning of the pandemic last year.

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