Bahrain has imposed a 14-day self isolation for all international arrivals as part of measures to contain the spread of the Novel Coronavirus (Covid-19), writes Sandeep Singh Grewal.

However, those flying from Iran, Iraq and Lebanon will be denied entry alltogether – except Bahrainis, residents, GCC nationals and previously cleared foreigners who will be transferred to quarantine facilities.

The Interior Ministry’s Nationality, Passport and Residence Affairs (NPRA) posted on its website yesterday that the new travel restrictions includes the suspension of visa-on-arrival for all nationalities from 3am tomorrow.

The NPRA website states the decision covers all international arrivals who “will be subject to the enhanced border control measures”.

“With the exception of diplomats, the kingdom of Bahrain will suspend the issuance of visas on arrival for all nationalities,” it added.

The travel restriction also states that Bahrain will deny entry to any individual who has either departed from or transited through Iraq, Lebanon and Iran at any point and for any period of time in the 14 days immediately preceding their arrival in Bahrain – with the exception of citizens, residents, GCC nationals, and passengers holding ‘Prior Permission Granted’ letters.

Those allowed entry will undergo medical examinations recommended by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and will be transferred to dedicated quarantine facilities.

“All individuals arriving to Bahrain from other destinations will be subject to medical examinations recommended by the WHO, and will be required to self-isolate for 14 days from the date of their arrival,” stated the NPRA on its website.

Meanwhile, Gulf Air yesterday announced it has temporarily suspended flights to and from several destinations across its network amid the pandemic.

The decision will be effective from 3am tomorrow until March 31.

Gulf Air flights that will continue to operate to and from Bahrain International Airport are Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Muscat, London, Paris, Frankfurt, Istanbul, Cairo, Mumbai, Delhi, Cochin, Karachi and Manila; all flights to other destinations have been suspended temporarily.

“The Gulf Air Contact Centre will be contacting affected passengers and assisting them accordingly,” said the airline in a statement.

“Passengers who have made their bookings through a travel agent are advised to get in touch with the agents directly regarding their rebooking and refund options.”