Coronavirus: Not closing shops will attract hefty fines

Muscat: Those who do not comply with instructions to shut down markets will have to pay a fine of up to OMR1,000, the Ministry of Regional Municipalities and Water Resources said.

A Ministerial Resolution was issued to 'close and block some shops, activities and markets', based on the decision of the Supreme Committee to deal with COVID-19.

The decision made it mandatory to shut down all shops in commercial complexes excluding food and consumer product shops, clinics, pharmacies and optical stores. The shutdown also includes traditional and popular markets, weddings and event halls, sports halls, health clubs, barber shops and women's beauty salons.

For the first violation a fine of OMR300 will be charged and for subsequent violations, the fine will be OMR1,000 and cancellation of license.