MUSCAT: Major banks in the country are temporarily reducing their opening hours and/or shutting branches to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

Social distancing measures are also being imposed in branches to help limit the spread of Covid-19 – which may result in longer queues outside.

Some providers are encouraging customers to only visit a branch if it is absolutely necessary, with digital and telephone banking services also available.

Bank Muscat reduces branch working hours
Bank Muscat, has reduced its branch working hours from 8am to 12pm starting from April 1, 2020.

“We encourage you to adopt social distancing for your well-being and safety. By adopting the use of Bank Muscat Mobile and Internet Banking that offer a wide range of services and transactions, you can avoid branch visits and social contact. The current compelling circumstances require us to reduce branch workforce and effective 1st April 2020, we will be reducing branch work hours to 8am to 12pm in order to enhance social distancing measures,” Bank Muscat said in a statement to customers.

Ahli Bank branches to work for four-hours
All Ahli Bank branches in the country will work for four hours. Customers can get services from the bank from 8am to 12pm starting from April 5, 2020. “In light of the current difficult situation, the Bank has decided to reduce the working hours effective from April 5,” the statement added.

Sohar International closes 3 branches
Sohar International bank has closed three of its branches in Ruwi, MBD and Al Wattayah to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

This news report will be updated when we get official statements from the other banks in Oman.