As Qatar enters the last lap of the countdown to the FIFA World Cup 2022, a number of changes to existing rules and practices come into effect today. These changes include revised timings in schools and government sector, easing of travel, entry and Covid-19 testing rules and access to almost all places in the country without having to show the Ehteraz status.
Following is a list of some of the key changes that are coming into effect today:
1. It is mandatory for individuals to present health status on Ehteraz application only while entering healthcare facilities.
2. No need to show Ehteraz status in other places, including shopping malls, gymnasiums, sport events, conferences, exhibitions and events, restaurants and cafes, amusement parks and entertainment centres, beauty centres and salons, weddings, swimming pools and water parks, and theatres and cinemas
3. Citizens and residents of Qatar no longer required to take Rapid Antigen Test or PCR test within 24 hours following their arrival in Qatar
4. Visitors no longer required to present negative Covid-19 PCR or Rapid Antigen Test result before travelling to Qatar
5. Visitors entering Qatar not required to pre-register on the Ehteraz health application prior to their arrival
6. Working hours in government sector will be from 7am-11am, with 80% of staff required to work remotely. Military, security, health and education sectors excluded from these decisions
7. Working hours for public and private schools that apply national standards will be from 7am until 12noon
6. Mid-term holiday will be from November 20 until December 22
7. Corniche to be pedestrian-only
8. Vehicle number plate restrictions in Central Doha from noon until 2am
9. Curbside vehicular access restrictions at Hamad International and Doha International airports; new parking fees in place
10. Extended Doha Metro timings from November 11
11. Qatar Museums revises timings