Gulf countries border closure over new Covid strain: All you need to know

Dubai - The move comes in light of a rapidly mutating strain of Covid-19 across Europe

A new mutating strain of Covid-19 has been spreading rapidly across Europe, resulting in over 40 countries cutting travel ties with the UK, where it was first detected. The new strain has since been detected in South Africa and Australia too.

Fears over the new Covid strain, which the UK reported as "out of control" and 70 per cent more transmissible than other strains, caused several countries to suspend flights to the nation on Sunday. As a precautionary measure, three Gulf countries this week announced similar measures, in addition to border closures. Here's all you need to know.

Also read: Explainer: Are new coronavirus strains cause for concern?

Saudi Arabia

On Sunday, Saudi Arabia suspended all international commercial flights for a renewable week — except for foreign flights already in the kingdom, which, state news agency SPA reported, would be allowed to leave.

Entry to the kingdom through land and sea ports were also suspended for a renewable week. However, SPA added that some flights would be allowed in exceptional circumstances.

Anyone who travelled to the Kingdom from European countries or high-risk countries after December 8 is being required to quarantine for two weeks from the date of their arrival.

They must also undergo a Covid-19 test during their self-isolation period and repeat the test every five days.

Anyone who has returned from or transited through a European or high-risk country within the last three months must also undergo the test.

The movement of goods, commodities and supply chains from countries where the mutated virus has not appeared will continue as usual.

Oman