Oman

Attendance 50% from today

Friday prayers paused

Muscat: The Supreme Committee of Covid-19 reduced attendance in government offices to 50 per cent and halted Friday prayers after reviewing the pandemic situation in the Sultanate of Oman. The decisions will come into effect from Sunday for two weeks in view of the rising number of Omicron infections and hospitalisations across governorates. In its meeting on Friday, the Supreme Committee also decided to suspend all conferences and exhibitions.

Five daily prayers will be allowed in mosques with 50 per cent capacity in line with the procedures announced by the Ministry of Awqaf and Religious Affairs in coordination with the Ministry of Health.

The committee also suspended congregational activities and advised the organisers to hold them without audience. The participants/organisers must abide by the precautionary measures announced before, including showing proof of vaccination.

Admit only vaccinated

The Supreme Committee urged restaurants, cafeterias, commercial complexes, trade outlets and public halls to stick to 50 per cent capacity, admit only vaccinated visitors, observe physical distance and ensure face masks.

The Supreme Committee affirmed that it will review its decisions and the epidemiological situation on a regular basis and implement new decisions.

It also urged all to take complete two doses of vaccinations and go for booster. The authorities concerned are urged to show no leniency in applying the precautionary measures, namely to ensure commitment to all measures at residences, workplace and public places. — ONA