What's the government response timeline for Qatar?

From Jan 24 (Reuters) - Qatar will start precautionary screening of passengers arriving at Hamad international airport from China to help stop the spread of the new coronavirus” https://www.reuters.com/article/china-health-airport/qatar-to-screen-airport-passengers-arriving-from-china-idUSL8N29T4M2

“Qatar Airways has taken the decision to suspend flights to mainland China from 3 February until further notice” https://www.qatarairways.com/en/press-releases/2019/December/ChinaFlights.html

Qatari citizens evacuated from the Islamic Republic of Iran have arrived in #Doha and a quarantine facility has been set up for them. We recommend following official sources for the latest information. https://www.gco.gov.qa/en/2020/02/27/arrival-of-the-qatari-citizens-from-the-islamic-republic-of-iran/

Those who shared accommmodations with the patients, or had contact with them, have been quarantined and are being tested to ensure they are free from infection https://www.moph.gov.qa/english/mediacenter/News/Pages/NewsDetails.aspx?ItemId=95

On 9th March 14 countries banned: Bangladesh, China, Egypt, India, Iran, Iraq, Italy, Lebanon, Nepal, Pakistan, the Philippines, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Syria and Thailand. https://www.gco.gov.qa/en/2020/03/08/statement-by-the-government-communications-office-on-the-temporary-suspension-of-entry-of-those-arriving-from-certain-countries-as-a-preventive-measure-due-to-the-spread-of-coronavirus-covid-19-wor/

"Qatar on Monday announced a nationwide closure of schools and universities amid fears over the coronavirus outbreak, adding that the closure will come into effect on March" 10 https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/03/qatar-bans-travellers-14-countries-coronavirus-concerns-200309060851684.html

"The Ministry of Public Health calls upon all citizens and residents to avoid crowded places and postpone holding social gatherings for the time being, for their own wellbeing and that of the community." https://www.gco.gov.qa/en/2020/03/12/government-communications-office-statement-regarding-measures-taken-by-the-state-of-qatar-to-combat-coronavirus-covid-19/

Lolwah al Khater said, the public transportation, including Doha Metro and Karwa buses, will cease to operate from tonight at 10 pm.( http://www.qatar-tribune.com/Latest-News/ArtMID/423/ArticleID/28781/covid-19-qatar-stops-all-incoming-flights-shuts-all-public-transport-services)

Qatar announced the closure of all shops and bank branches, except for food stores and pharmacies. Eighty percent of government employees were also ordered to work from home. https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/03/coronavirus-cases-qatar-related-migrant-workers-200318191539620.html

https://www.gco.gov.qa/en/briefing-room/second-press-conference-for-the-supreme-committee-for-crisis-management/ https://qatar.vcu.edu/coronavirus-updates

Lockdown of the Industrial Area: "First, effective from today, March 17, we announce the partial closure of the Industrial Area, from Street No. 1 to Street No. 32". https://www.gco.gov.qa/en/briefing-room/second-press-conference-for-the-supreme-committee-for-crisis-management/ Some international criticism over this step: https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2020/mar/20/covid-19-lockdown-turns-qatars-largest-migrant-camp-into-virtual-prison

On March 15, Qatar said it would ban inbound flights, except for cargo and transit flights, starting from March 18. The entry ban does not apply to Qatari citizens. Nationals of Qatar are not allowed to exit the country. https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/03/coronavirus-travel-restrictions-border-shutdowns-country-200318091505922.html

"Qatar bans gatherings, deploy patrols to contain coronavirus" https://uk.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-qatar/qatar-bans-gatherings-deploy-patrols-to-contain-coronavirus-idUKKBN2180VZ

"Qatar bans gatherings, deploy patrols to contain coronavirus" https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-qatar/qatar-bans-gatherings-deploy-patrols-to-contain-coronavirus-idUSKBN2180VZ

On 28th March, the Qatari Ministry of Administrative Development, Labor and Social Affairs (MADLSA) published a guidance note on the treatment of workers and the rights of employees, stating that 'All workers in isolation, quarantine or receiving treatment will still be paid their basic salary and receive their allowances irrespective of whether they are entitled to sick leave benefits.' https://www.clydeco.com/insight/article/covid-19-middle-east-employment-an-update-on-new-government-initiatives https://www.marhaba.qa/covid-19-update-qatar-health-and-employment-guidelines-for-workers/

80% of the work force of the private sector are to work from home from 1 April 2020, with certain exceptions the working hours of employees and workers in the public and private sector who are still required to attend their workplace are reduced to 6 hours per day from 07.00 - 13.00, although some projects considered to be in the national interests have been exempted from this restriction https://www.pinsentmasons.com/out-law/analysis/coronavirus-impact-construction-qatar

The drive through testing is reserved for those people who meet all the following criteria: Those who have returned to Qatar from overseas between March 10 and March 21 Those who have been undergoing quarantine at home and have signed an official undertaking for this. Those who have not been swabbed to test for Covid-19 since returning home. https://www.qatarday.com/news/local/drive-thru-coronavirus-testing-station-now-open-in-qatar/71111

Ban on public events originally: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-03-22/qatar-sets-up-checkpoints-bans-gatherings-amid-virus-spread Still in place 25th April - See: "The patrols ensure that there is no gathering in public places" https://www.gulf-times.com/story/661657/Lekhwiya-patrols-help-curb-Covid-19-spread-in-Qatar

Only 2 in a car except for families https://www.gulf-times.com/story/661649/2-persons-only-in-a-car-except-for-families-MoI

1. The "gradual lifting of Industrial Area lockdown", starting Apr 22. 2. Recommendations to stay home still stand, as of Apr 20 press conference, thus act in practice as a recommendation to not travel as well. https://www.qatar-tribune.com/Latest-News/ArtMID/423/ArticleID/29243/Gradual-lifting-of-Industrial-Area-lockdown-to-begin-on-Wednesday-Khater https://www.gco.gov.qa/en/briefing-room/ninth-press-conference-by-the-supreme-committee-for-crisis-management/

"a two-day pilot launched Wednesday has seen asymptomatic residents and citizens contacted and invited to participate in voluntary tests at several clinics across the country." https://news.yahoo.com/qatar-widens-virus-testing-beyond-locked-down-workers-161631969.html

As of May 12, 2020, restaurants and cafés are allowed to resume the activity of delivering or handing over orders to customers outside the business place, with those establishments located in malls only allowed to process delivery orders and not hand over orders to customers both inside and outside the workplace. https://www.imf.org/en/Topics/imf-and-covid19/Policy-Responses-to-COVID-19

Drive-through testing available https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/05/qatar-drive-testing-understanding-virus-200512092746551.html

Starting May 22, 2020 all citizens and residents are required to install the Ehteraz App on their mobile phones before leaving their residence, which will help track COVID-19 transmission chains, help prioritize testing, and provide COVID-related updates. https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/05/qatar-introduces-coronavirus-restrictions-eid-al-fitr-200519082551972.html

No new policy identified

"The Ministry of Finance instructed government ministries, institutions and entities funded by the state to reduce monthly costs for non-Qatari employees by 30% from June 1, either by cutting salaries or laying off workers with a two-month notice, according to a letter seen by Bloomberg." https://www.aljazeera.com/ajimpact/expats-working-qatar-government-face-pay-cuts-lay-offs-200611131300913.html

According to Reuters "Qatar will start lifting coronavirus restrictions under a four-phase plan starting on June 15, when some mosques can reopen." However there is no mention of easing restrictions for other public gatherings like weddings, conferences, meetings. Link https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-qatar/qatar-to-lift-lockdown-in-four-phases-from-june-15-idUSKBN23F2KD

Some of the mosques are opened on 15th June. There is no change in policy for other gatherings. Link https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-qatar/qatar-to-lift-lockdown-in-four-phase

According to Reuters Qatar will start lifting coronavirus restrictions under a four-phase plan starting on June 15, when some mosques can reopen and flights can depart, government spokeswoman Lulwa Rashed al-Khater saidPriority on flights will be given to holders of residency visas, she said. Everyone entering Qatar will be required to undergo a two-week quarantine in specially designated hotels at their own expense" Link https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-qatar/qatar-to-lift-lockdown-in-four-phases-from-june-15-idUSKBN23F2KD

On/From 01 July, (1) 50% of public and private sector employees are allowed at the workplace as needed, provided that employers meet hygienic requirements, implement precautionary measures, and continue to protect vulnerable employees by allowing them to work remotely; (2) The capacity of private health facilities was increased to 60%; and (3) Restaurants, libraries and museums are allowed to reopen with limited capacity and limited working hours. https://www.gco.gov.qa/en/top-news/statement-by-the-supreme-committee-for-crisis-management-regarding-phase-2-of-the-plan-for-the-gradual-lifting-of-covid-19-restrictions/

From/On 01 July, (1) Families are allowed to rent boats and yachts in groups not exceeding 10 people; (2) The maximum number of public and private gatherings was reduced from 10 to 5 people following the discovery of numerous cases amongst Qatari nationals due to majlis gatherings and family visits, and amongst white-collar expats due to uncontrolled contact with no precautionary measures; and (3) Sports training in open spaces and large halls are permitted for professional athletes in groups not exceeding 10 people. https://www.gco.gov.qa/en/top-news/statement-by-the-supreme-committee-for-crisis-management-regarding-phase-2-of-the-plan-for-the-gradual-lifting-of-covid-19-restrictions/

From 1 July, all parks and beaches as well as the corniche can be reopened for people of all ages while continuing to practice social distancing. Play areas remain closed. https://www.gco.gov.qa/en/top-news/statement-by-the-supreme-committee-for-crisis-management-regarding-phase-2-of-the-plan-for-the-gradual-lifting-of-covid-19-restrictions/

On 1 July, Qatar Airways reactivated services to 11 destinations, including three services to the United States of America. https://simpleflying.com/qatar-airways-us-resumption/

Qatar entered phase 2 of lifting restrictions on the 1st of July, no changes in policies of phase 2. Latest update on the 28th of June: https://www.gco.gov.qa/en/top-news/statement-by-the-supreme-committee-for-crisis-management-regarding-phase-2-of-the-plan-for-the-gradual-lifting-of-covid-19-restrictions/

Qatar entered phase 2 of lifting restrictions on the 1st of July, no changes in policies of phase 2. Latest update on the 28th of June: https://www.gco.gov.qa/en/top-news/statement-by-the-supreme-committee-for-crisis-management-regarding-phase-2-of-the-plan-for-the-gradual-lifting-of-covid-19-restrictions/

Qatar entered phase 2 of lifting restrictions on the 1st of July, no changes in policies of phase 2. Latest update on the 28th of June: https://www.gco.gov.qa/en/top-news/statement-by-the-supreme-committee-for-crisis-management-regarding-phase-2-of-the-plan-for-the-gradual-lifting-of-covid-19-restrictions/

Qatar entered phase 2 of lifting restrictions on the 1st of July, no changes in policies of phase 2. Latest update on the 28th of June: https://www.gco.gov.qa/en/top-news/statement-by-the-supreme-committee-for-crisis-management-regarding-phase-2-of-the-plan-for-the-gradual-lifting-of-covid-19-restrictions/

Qatar entered phase 2 of lifting restrictions on the 1st of July, no changes in policies of phase 2. Latest update on the 28th of June: https://www.gco.gov.qa/en/top-news/statement-by-the-supreme-committee-for-crisis-management-regarding-phase-2-of-the-plan-for-the-gradual-lifting-of-covid-19-restrictions/

Qatar entered phase 2 of lifting restrictions on the 1st of July, no changes in policies of phase 2. Latest update on the 28th of June: https://www.gco.gov.qa/en/top-news/statement-by-the-supreme-committee-for-crisis-management-regarding-phase-2-of-the-plan-for-the-gradual-lifting-of-covid-19-restrictions/

Qatar, 9th of July: Exclude children below 14 years old from swabbing prior to admission. http://archive.fo/7oqUA

Qatar, 9th of July: Excluding diplomats and holders of diplomatic cards issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs from the "Ehtraz" application. http://archive.fo/kt3Iw

Qatar on 22 July announced to allow citizens and permanent residency holders to travel outside the country and return at any time, and residents outside the country to return from 1 August. Arrivals from low-risk countries (to be published shortly) are required to take a coronavirus test at the airport and sign a formal pledge to adhere to quarantine at home for a week. The measures come as the third phase of a four-phase plan to lift coronavirus restrictions starts at the beginning of August. https://uk.reuters.com/article/health-coronavirus-qatar/update-1-qatar-allows-citizens-and-permanent-residents-to-travel-and-return-anytime-idUKL5N2ES781 https://www.gco.gov.qa/en/2020/07/21/government-communications-office-statement-on-qatars-travel-policy-during-the-gradual-lifting-of-covid-19-restrictions/

According to the IMF website, Qatar’s QAR 75 billion package to reduce the effects of COVID-19 was announced on March 16. The program aims at shoring up small businesses and hard-hit sectors (hospitality, tourism, retail, commercial complexes, and logistics), including through six-month exemptions on utilities payments (water, electricity). Logistics areas and small and medium industries are exempt from rent payments for six months. https://www.imf.org/en/Topics/imf-and-covid19/Policy-Responses-to-COVID-19

According to the IMF website, Qatar’s QAR 75 billion package to reduce the effects of COVID-19 was announced on March 16. The program aims at shoring up small businesses and hard-hit sectors (hospitality, tourism, retail, commercial complexes, and logistics), including through six-month exemptions on utilities payments (water, electricity). Logistics areas and small and medium industries are exempt from rent payments for six months. https://www.imf.org/en/Topics/imf-and-covid19/Policy-Responses-to-COVID-19

According to the IMF website, starting May 22, 2020 all citizens and residents are required to install the Ehteraz App on their mobile phones before leaving their residence, which will help track COVID-19 transmission chains, help prioritize testing, and provide COVID-related updates. https://www.imf.org/en/Topics/imf-and-covid19/Policy-Responses-to-COVID-19

According to the COVID-19 Qatar National Response Plan, Qatar enters into the phase 3 on July 28th . the phase three permits the full re-opening of shopping malls. However, Courts Food and restaurants not registered through Qatar Clean program remain closed, except for delivery and pick up. Cinemas are still closed. https://covid19.moph.gov.qa/EN/Documents/PDFs/ENG%20PHASE%20III.pdf https://covid19.moph.gov.qa/EN/Documents/PDFs/Controlled%20Phased%20Lifting%20of%20COVID-19%20Restrictions%20in%20Qatar.pdf

According to the COVID-19 Qatar National Response Plan, Qatar enters into the phase 3 on July 28th . the regulation allows limited gatherings of up to 10 people indoors, 30 people outdoors and the restricted mosques opening for Friday prayers at 54 mosques. No specific instructions have been found relating to public events, but given the gathering restrictions, I assume that large public events are still not allowed. https://covid19.moph.gov.qa/EN/Documents/PDFs/ENG%20PHASE%20III.pdf

According to the COVID-19 Qatar National Response Plan, Qatar enters into the phase 3 on July 28th . the regulation allows limited gatherings of up to 10 people indoors, 30 people outdoors. https://covid19.moph.gov.qa/EN/Documents/PDFs/ENG%20PHASE%20III.pdf

Restricted service of buses and metro will be permitted in phase four. https://covid19.moph.gov.qa/EN/Documents/PDFs/Controlled%20Phased%20Lifting%20of%20COVID-19%20Restrictions%20in%20Qatar.pdf

Phase III of Qatar's Controlled Phased Lifting of Covid-19 restrictions still in place

"Partial reopening of health clubs, gyms, swimming pools and salons." Source: https://www.fragomen.com/insights/blog/covid-19-and-reopening-qatar-what-you-should-know

"Arrivals to the State of Qatar from low-risk countries are required to take a Coronavirus test upon arrival at the airport, and to sign a formal pledge to adhere to quarantine at home for a week." "Arrivals from countries that are not included in the list of low-risk countries and in which COVID-19 testing centres have been accredited are required to obtain a virus-free certificate from there no more than 48 hours before travelling." Source: https://www.gco.gov.qa/en/2020/07/21/government-communications-office-statement-on-qatars-travel-policy-during-the-gradual-lifting-of-covid-19-restrictions/