MUSCAT: After 10 months, a number of non-Muslim places of worship including churches and temples have begun to reopen in Oman as Covid-19 restrictions gradually ease across the country.

According to authorities prayers has allowed to resume at a number of places of worship in Muscat with strict guidelines. Meanwhile, temples in the country will reopen on Saturday, December 26, officials informed The Arabian Stories. “Both Sri Krishna Temple in Darsait and Sri Shiva Temple in Muscat will reopen on Saturday following a prescribed timings. Only limited number of people will be allowed to enter the temple by following strict COVID-19 protocols including wearing masks and maintaining social distancing,” said an official. 

Entry by online registration only

With people celebrating Christmas, limited resumptions of holy masses have been allowed in various churches in the country.  In a circular issued to worshippers, Ruwi Church said worshippers are allowed to enter subject to advance online registration.  “A special online link created on our website (https://ruwiparish.org)allows parishioners  to register their details. Upon successful completion of the registration , you will receive an SMS (text message) on your phone, which must be displayed to secure entry into the Church for the desired service. Every individual of ages 12 to 65 years is required to register online to gain entry into the church,” a circular from the church said. 

According to the circular children  below 12 years and the elderly above 65 years will not be allowed to enter the Church premises. 

Both temples and churches in the country was closed since March 18 following Covid-19 pandemic. 

Following are the temple timings:

Shri Krishna Temple, Darsait

8.00 am to 8.45 am

9.30am to 10.15 am

7.00pm to 8.00 pm

Shri Shiva Temple, Muscat

7.00am to 8.30 am

7.30 pm to 9.00 pm