MUSCAT: Banks, exchanges and finance companies are allowed to operate during the commercial activities ban that will come into force on May 8, the Government Communication Centre (GC), has clarified on Thursday.

In a statement issued, GC said while the financial institutions can operate during the ban hours, customer lounges must be closed except for necessary transactions.

“Banks, exchange and finance companies are allowed to operate during ban hours , while customer lounges are closed except for necessary transactions, set in accordance with the controls and procedures determined by the Central Bank of Oman,” GC added.

In the wake of rising coronavirus cases, the Supreme Committee took stringent measures including closing all commercial activities throughout the day, while movement ban has been extended from 7pm till 4am. The decision is effective until May 15.