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Posted On: 26 March 2020 07:10 pm
Updated On: 12 November 2020 09:11 am

Coronavirus in Qatar -- Week 4 Updates

Khadiza Begum
Khadiza Begum
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Have you missed the most important coronavirus (COVID-19) updates of the week on the coronavirus in Qatar Weekly Update? Every Thursday, we take a moment to bring you all the updates and latest developments in the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) epidemic in Qatar. Here's what happened from week 1 - 3. Read below to know more about what's happening in Qatar and how the government is trying to control the situation.

26 March 2020 9:43 am

Qatar Athletics Federation postpones its local competitions

The Qatar Athletics Federation has postponed all local competitions for all groups and has suspended foreign participations by the national team champions in order to support the efforts made by the State through all precautionary measures to limit the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19).

25 March 2020 10:13 pm

In-person money exchange and transfer service offices in Qatar to close temporarily

The State of Qatar through the Government Communications Office announced the temporary closure of in-person money exchange and transfer service offices in Qatar effective 26 March. This is part of wider measures introduced by the Government to close non-essential shops and public spaces to tackle the COVID-19 virus. The most important thing that the people of Qatar can do to contain the spread of the virus is to reduce day-to-day contact with other people.

Throughout the period of closure, money can be transferred through online exchange services, mobile applications, and Ooredoo Money. All services allow users to transfer money abroad instantly either online or through their phone

25 March 2020 08:06 pm

MoPH records 11 new confirmed coronavirus (COVID-19) cases

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The Ministry of Public Health today announced the registration of 11 new confirmed cases of coronavirus 2019 (Covid-19) in the State of Qatar. Some of the new cases of infection are related to the travelers who came recently to the State of Qatar and others belong to people in contact with infected cases, including 5 cases of Qatari citizens. The new infected cases are in complete health isolation, and they are receiving the necessary medical care.

25 March 2020 07:59 pm

H.H. Sheikha Moza writes thoughtful messages on coronavirus

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H.H. Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, Education Above All Foundation, and Silatech took to Instagram to share her profound thoughts on the coronavirus outbreak. Click here to read the full message.

25 March 2020 06:38 pm

MOI urges public to use the website, Metrash2 for renewal of vehicle registration (Istimara)

Ministry of Interior represented by the General Directorate of Traffic called Wednesday on the public to benefit from its electronic services to complete vehicle renewal transactions after the exemption from the technical examination, in the framework of the health and precautionary measures to contain the Coronavirus (COVID-19), emphasizing that the patrols will proceed its usual work to seize vehicles violating technical specifications and conditions.

25 March 2020 04:30 pm

MoPH announces new working hours for Medical Commission effective March 29

Ministry of Public Health announces new working hours for the Medical Commission as part of the precautionary and preventive measures taken against COVID-19. It has been decided that starting from Sunday, March 29th, the new working hours will be from 7 am up to 2 pm.

25 March 2020 04:04 pm

Doha Bank donates 1000 Tablets to support Qatar Charity’s E-learning project

Building on its efforts in the field of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Doha Bank, announced its contribution of 1000 tablets in support of the E-learning initiative launched by Qatar Charity as part of its “Our Good for Our People” campaign. This step aims to help students in need to resume their education online, in light of the Qatari government’s recent decision to suspend public and private schools and universities until further notice. The initiative also comes as part of the precautionary measures taken by the Qatari leadership to curb the outbreak of the coronavirus (Covid-19).

25 March 2020 01:36 pm

Newly established Umm Slal quarantine compound​​ to provide safety, entertainment needs for quarantined people

Umm Slal quarantine compound is composed of 32 buildings with capacity for 18,000 beds and will be available once the compound is fully equipped in the next few weeks.

The compound currently contains 4,000 beds and will reach 8,000 beds in the next week. It has been fully equipped to ensure comfort, safety and entertainment needs in addition to the necessary health services for quarantined people.

25 March 2020 09:41 am

Qatar participates in an extraordinary meeting of GCC finance ministers to discuss implications of Covid-19

H.E. Minister of Finance Ali Shareef Al Emadi participated in the extraordinary meeting of the GCC Financial and Economic Cooperation Committee, that was held online, to discuss the financial and economic implications of the Coronavirus (COVID-19).

They also reiterated their commitment to achieving sustainable growth, preventing the negative risks of the pandemic and its impact on the global economy

25 March 2020 09:39 am

Authorities arrest 10 people for violating home quarantine

Ministry of Public Health announced that the designated authorities arrested 10 people who violated the requirements of the home quarantine, they committed to following, which they are legally accountable for, in accordance with the procedures of the health authorities in the country.

24 March 2020 09:50 pm

Coronavirus updates in Qatar: 35,000 volunteers, new medical facilities, Industrial Area, Grade 12 exams

In a press conference tonight, Official Spokesperson of the Supreme Committee for Crisis Management, H.E. Lolwah AlKhater, gave the latest developments regarding Qatar's efforts to prevent the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19). To know more click HERE.

24 March 2020 09:05 pm

4 new cases recovered as 25 new cases tested positive for coronavirus (COVID-19)

It was announced that there are 25 new cases, bringing the total to 526 total cases of coronavirus in Qatar. There are also 4 new recovered cases, bringing the total of people recovered to 41.

25 new cases were registered to be infected with Coronavirus, including 16 expats and 9 coming from abroad, 5 of whom are Qataris coming from United Kingdom The new cases were quarantined, with one of the Qatari cases in intensive care.

24 March 2020 07:33 pm Work in the time of coronavirus: How to prevent the spread of COVID-19 at the workplace

Because of the coronavirus outbreak, the Qatar government has urged people to avoid unnecessary travel outside of the country and has reminded everyone to stay at home as much as possible and to practice social distancing. As a result, travel restrictions were implemented as well as the closure of establishments and facilities across the country including but not limited to parks, gyms, cinemas, beaches, and retail stores inside shopping malls to name a few. Classes were also suspended and distance learning was introduced.

24 March 2020 07:22 pm

Ministry of Education continues efforts to further Qatar's distance learning system

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The Ministry of Education and Higher Education continued its efforts related to the distance learning system to which it has allocated 5 education centers to teach via electronic platforms.

All sectors of the Ministry have concerted efforts as mentors and teachers prepare video lessons and digital educational materials on a daily basis, the Ministry said, while adding that it has monitored the interaction and response of parents with the distance learning system since the early hours of its launch on Sunday.

24 March 2020 06:27 pm

Qatar Airways updates on travel vouchers and cash refunds

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Due to COVID-19, a number of countries have issued restrictions on entry for overseas travelers resulting in flight changes. Because of these, Qatar Airways has given its affected passengers the option to re-book their tickets to alternative dates or destinations, or request a full refund without charge.

24 March 2020 12:21 pm

Communal amenities at Pearl Qatar are temporarily closed amid coronavirus outbreak

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To safeguard and support the community at The Pearl-Qatar, UDC has taken active preventive measures in light of the State of Qatar’s directives to contain the spread of the Corona virus (Covid-19).

24 March 2020 11:50 am

MOCI issues precautionary measures for delivery companies

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Ministry of Commerce and Industry issues precautionary measures for delivery companies.

24 March 2020 11:19 am MOCI urges citizens to report businesses not following the recent rules

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry is urging consumers to report any violations of its decisions to following: Call: 16001, Email: [email protected], Whatsapp: +974 6611 1400

    24 March 2020 10:46 am

    Frequently asked Q&A about the labour laws in Qatar during coronavirus outbreak

    Many changes and restrictions are being announced since the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak in Qatar. We received a lot of questions from the community members and wanted to list down the most asked questions with answers.

    24 March 2020 09:41 am

    Two people arrested for violating Covid-19 home quarantine

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    The Ministry of Public Health announced that the competent authorities arrested two people who violated the requirements of home quarantine on Monday.

    The pledge they committed themselves had forewarned this. The ministry said the arrest of these persons is part of the measures in force in the country and approved by the health authorities. This is to ensure public safety, in order to prevent the spread of Covid-19.

    24 March 2020 09:33 am

    Qatar Chamber launches Takatuf Initiative to support prevention of COVID 19

    Qatar Chamber has launched 'Takatuf Initiative' with a view to urging its members, public and private joint-stock companies and businessmen to support the country's efforts to limit the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19).

    The initiative aims to mitigate the economic impacts of the precautionary measures taken by the country to protect citizens and residents from COVID-19 through providing in-kind support as a contribution to provide governmental needs required for these measures.

    23 March 2020 08:32 pm

    Frequently asked questions about the renewal of visas and RP in Qatar

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    In an effort to curb the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), a significant number of countries in the world including Qatar have travel restrictions in place. Due to this current situation, a lot of questions have arisen regarding the renewal of visas or Residence Permits (RP). If you are seeking to extend your visit visa or if you are a valid QID holer and stuck outside of the country, read the article to find out the answers to the questions related to the renewal of visas or RP.

    23 March 2020 08:25 pm

    4 new recovered cases, 7 new confirmed cases of coronavirus (COVID-19)

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    The Ministry of Public Health announced today 7 new confirmed cases of coronavirus 2019 (Covid-19) were recorded in the State of Qatar with 4 more people now recovered.

    The new cases of infection are related to travelers who recently came to the State of Qatar and to expatriate workers, including two cases of Qatari citizens. The new infected cases are in complete sanitary isolation, and they are receiving necessary medical care.

    23 March 2020 02:06 pm

    Gulf Mall exempts retailers from rent for three months

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    Due to the current situation in Qatar, all the retailers at the Gulf Mall will be exempted from rental obligations for the months of March, April, and May of this year.

    23 March 2020 02:06 pm

    Sidra Medicine announces changes to its pharmacy services

    Following the current development of the COVID-19 and in the interest of public health and patient safety, Sidra Medicine is implementing precautionary measures as of 23/03/2020 for pharmacy services.

    23 March 2020 09:50 am

    Qatar Charity's volunteer program for COVID 19 receives great response

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    Qatar Charity has launched an initiative called "#Volunteer_For_Qatar" to contribute to the efforts made by the state to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in alignments with the standards of the Ministry of Public Health and other relevant authorities in Qatar.

    23 March 2020 09:48 am
    What is Social Distancing and why is it important?

    Watch this video to find out what is social distancing and why is it important to limit the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. Are you practicing social distancing correctly?

    23 March 2020 09:16 am

    Qatar temporarily suspends issuing birth certificates until further notice​​

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    Within the framework of precautionary measures to limit the spread of the Coronavirus (Covid 19) and in the interest of everyone's safety, the service of issuing a birth certificate to newborns in all licensed government and private hospitals, as well as the work of the Births and Deaths Committee, has been suspended as of 22 March 2020 until further notice. However, the service of issuing death certificates from the Office of Human Services according to the recommended health precautions will continue.

    23 March 2020 08:33 am

    Zakat Fund issues new instructions for help-seekers

    Within the framework of the precautionary measures taken by the State to reduce the spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19), the Zakat Fund of the Ministry of Endowments (Awqaf) and Islamic Affairs has issued new instructions for aid seekers, related on providing permanent, urgent and cut aids in addition to other assistances, which the fund is providing for the eligible registered people as well as the new applicants.

    23 March 2020 12:49 am

    Stay in shape at home during the coronavirus outbreak with these free home workout sessions

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    No gym? No problem! All you need is a comfortable space in your home to do your daily workout, your gadget, and an internet connection. While the gyms and fitness centers are closed right now due to the coronavirus outbreak in Qatar, these gyms and instructors are offering FREE daily workouts that you can easily follow through their social media accounts.

    22 March 2020 11:50 pm

    Ministry announces arrest of 14 people for violating home quarantine conditions

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    The Ministry of Public Health announced that the competent authorities arrested 14 people who violated the requirements of home quarantine in accordance with the pledge through which they committed themselves to implement the specific requirements from health authorities, which they are legally accountable for, in accordance with the procedures of the health authorities in the country.

    22 March 2020 07:41 pm

    Doha Clinic Hospital to remain operational

    Doha Clinic Hospital has announced a clarification regarding its earlier post and states that the hospital will continue to remain operational for all existing patients and anyone needing medical help.

    22 March 2020 05:19 pm

    Ministry announces change in working hours in Government Services Complexes

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    As announced on its official Twitter account, the Ministry of Administrative Development, Labour and Social Affairs will be implementing a change in working hours in the Government Services Complexes.

    22 March 2020 04:59 pm

    Ashghal to build field hospital with 150 beds as part of measures to combat spread of COVID-19

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    As part of its efforts in combating the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) in Qatar, the Public Works Authority (Ashghal) is building a field hospital with a capacity of 150 beds and a shaded space with a capacity of 800 beds, with all the required equipment and supplies.

    22 March 2020 04:18 pm

    Ministry extends return and replacement period for goods and merchandise

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    In its official Twitter account, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry has announced that it is extending the return and replacement period for goods and merchandise. This is due to the closure of retail stores in malls and shopping centres, as part of the efforts to limit the spread of coronavirus in the country.

    The Ministry of Commerce and Industry is urging consumers to report any violations of its decisions by calling 16001 or emailing infomoci.gov.qa or through its accounts on social media sites.

    22 March 2020 01:23 pm

    MOI clarifies "1 person in 1 vehicle" restriction

    The Ministry of Interior tweeted saying that their comment “any vehicle with more than one person will be stopped and asked” was incorrect.

    The Ministry of the Interior affirms that the prohibition does not include transportation by cars, buses or trucks as long as it is for a necessary purpose.

    22 March 2020 12:45 pm

    MOCI Qatar: Guidelines for social distancing at retail outlets

    The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has asked sales outlets in the country to apply the requirement of having a safe distance between customers and clients by placing guiding signs on the ground, including at waiting queues at cash counters and reception, in the framework of the precautionary and preventive measures announced by the Ministry.

    All shops in the country to place signage on the ground (as shown in the image below). The signage to indicate 1.5 metres distance between customers at areas demarcated for payment and reception.

    22 March 2020 12:39 pm

    MOPH issues the operation memo for private health care sectors including dentists

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    MOPH announced the operations for private health care sectors as below:

    1. Dental Clinics: To be open for emergency and critical procedures only

    2. All other Clinics: To reduce physical attendance by 2/3. and to be replaced by virtual attendance.

    Remaining 1/3 can be conducted by attendance in person subject to strict measures of Infection Prevention & Control (IPC) and social distancing in accordance with the Ministry of Public Health.

    3. All Private Health Care Sectors including Hospitals

    To be stood ready and prepared to assist public hospitals as required by the Ministry of Public Health.

    22 March 2020 12:05 pm

    Ministry announces temporary closure of all F&B outlets and mobile vehicles in sports clubs, Corniche, Lusail and Aspire Park

    The Ministry issues a circular regarding the temporary closure of all restaurants, cafes, food outlets and mobile vehicles in sports clubs, Doha Corniche, Al Khor, Lusail and Aspire Park, starting from Sunday 22 March 2020.

    The Ministry of Commerce and Industry is urging consumers to report any violations of its decisions by calling 16001 or emailing [email protected] or through its accounts on social media sites.

    22 March 2020 09:43 am

    Qatar launches two TV Channels to support a smooth transition to distance learning

    CEO of Qatar Media Corporation (QMC) H.E. Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Hamad Al-Thani, in cooperation with the Ministry of Education and Higher Education has inaugurated two TV channels affiliated to Qatar TV, named Education 1 and Education 2.

    This multi-faceted media and educational project comes within QMC's social responsibility efforts for providing educational platforms and channels for students; smooth transition to distance learning and for "Education 1" and "Educational 2" to serve as platforms that support the efforts of the Ministry of Education to finish the school year in appropriate conditions for students and parents.

    21 March 2020 09:47 pm

    State of Qatar prohibits all forms of social gatherings

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    As on 22 March 2020, 12:07 am: The Ministry of Interior tweeted saying that their comment “any vehicle with more than one person will be stopped and asked” was incorrect. The Ministry of the Interior affirms that the prohibition does not include transportation by cars, buses or trucks as long as it is for a necessary purpose.

    21 March 2020 08:58 pm

    Beaches and parks in Qatar to close temporarily

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    Ministry of Municipality and Environment (MME) announced that all beaches and parks in Qatar will remain closed for the public until further notice.

    In the context of the state’s efforts to combat the new Coronavirus, the Ministry of Municipality and Environment decided to end the camping season for this year starting tomorrow 22/3/2020 in order to preserve the safety of citizens and residents, provided that the procedures for removing the camps are completed before the end of Wednesday, March 25, 2020.

    21 March 2020 07:53 pm

    MoPH announces 11 new confirmed coronavirus cases

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    In its website, the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) today announced 11 new confirmed cases of coronavirus 2019 (Covid-19) during the last 24 hours taking the total confirmed cases of coronavirus in Qatar to 481. There are already 27 patients who have recovered from COVID-19 taking the total active cases to 454.

    21 March 2020 06:55 pm

    MOI sets up a special number to report cases of quarantine violations

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    The Ministry of Interior, Qatar mentioned today that if you need to report your complaints regarding quarantine in hotels and homes and the cases of non-compliance you can contact 4457 9999.
    This is being done as a precautionary measure to curtail further spread of Coronavirus (COVID19).

    21 March 2020 03:21 pm

    Heart Hospital's Emergency Department closes its public access

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    As a result of the evolving COVID-19 situation, a number of changes have been made to the delivery of healthcare services across HMC to protect our patients, visitors and the wider public.

    One of these changes means that from tomorrow, Sunday 22 March,the Heart Hospital Emergency Department will no longer be open to public access. The Heart Hospital will continue to provide care to patients with emergency cardiac conditions, but will not accept walk-in patients.

    21 March 2020 09:56 am

    How to volunteer in Qatar amidst the coronavirus outbreak

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    Amidst the coronavirus outbreak in Qatar, a lot of people have expressed a desire to volunteer and help in any way that they can. Seeing this goodwill gesture of the residents of Qatar, the following places have created volunteering opportunities for Qatari nationals and residents.

    21 March 2020 09:42 am

    Ministry sets fixed price for selling medical masks in Qatar

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    The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has announced setting a fixed price for selling medical masks in Qatar. The prices differ based on the type of mask.

    21 March 2020 09:03 am

    Ministry clarifies which stores should be closed in Qatar

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    Ministry of Commerce and Industry issued a clarification statement on Friday stating that all stores except those selling food products and medical supplies inside commercial complexes are to be closed. This means that all stores within Al Meera or Lulu complexes are to be closed but Al Meera and Lulu themselves may remain open. As a reminder, pharmacies, supermarkets, and restaurants can stay open (although restaurants can only provide take away and delivery).

    20 March 2020 09:31 pm

    Ministries continue to disinfect and sterilize public areas

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    You may have seen this small pick-up truck, driving around areas fuming out smoke.

    Ministry of Municipality and Environment in cooperation with many other municipalities continue to put their effort to clean, disinfect and sterilize the public area of Qatar by using “mist spray” technology.

    20 March 2020 09:21 pm Updated On: 20 March 2020 09:34 pm

    MoPH announces 10 new confirmed coronavirus cases

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    In its website, the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) today announced 10 new confirmed cases of coronavirus 2019 (Covid-19) during the last 24 hours taking the total confirmed cases of coronavirus in Qatar to 470. There are already 10 patients who have recovered from COVID-19 taking the total active cases to 460.

    20 March 2020 07:19 pm

    Food trucks at Aspire Zone postpones take away orders

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    Aspire Zone announced to postpone all take away orders for 2 weeks starting from 21 March 2020. This decision is extendable.

    20 March 2020 04:30 pm

    MOCI fixes the price of vegetables, fruits, fish and seafood

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    The Ministry of Commerce and Industry announced fixing the maximum prices for selling vegetables, fruits, fish, and seafood until March 31st. 2020.
    This decision is renewable.