Kuwait extends entry ban on foreigners

Kuwait has extended its entry ban on non-Kuwaitis until further notice to prevent the spread of coronavirus, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) announced on Twitter. According to state news agency KUNA, the decision came in line with instructions from the health authorities and while the state was expected to lift its two-week ban on entry of foreigners initiated on February 7.

However, nationals, medical personnel, relatives of Kuwaiti citizens, and accompanied domestic workers, diplomats and minors below the age of 18 are all exempted from the entry ban given that they self-quarantine at a hotel for a week and another week at home.

DGCA's latest directive clarified travellers would not be permitted to board flights if not registered in the government platform Kuwait Mosafer or its Kuwaitmosafer application. Upon entry, passengers must present a negative Covid-19 PCR certificate taken within 72 hours before boarding and be subjected to a self-paid PCR test at the airport.

Kuwait had also introduced a set of new coronavirus restrictions earlier this month, such as suspending all social gatherings, sports events and mandatory closing of commercial outlets from 8 PM to 5 AM. The authorities also ordered a temporary closure of celebration halls and tents.