Qatar hosts 31 Bahrainis as they wait to get home

As the world grapples with the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis, several traveling, entry restrictions have emerged in various countries. 

Amidst all the tension, Qatar does not cease to amaze with its exemplary humanitarian and kind spirit. 

The country's Government Communications Office (GCO) yesterday announced that it is hosting 31 Bahraini citizens who were unable to depart from Hamad International Airport after the Bahraini government refused to receive them.

In an official press statement, the GCO said that the Bahrainis arrived in Doha on a Qatar Airways flight from Iran.

Bahrain continues to bar the entry of commercial flights from Qatar, a decision that has been in place since the illegal blockade was imposed on Qatar in 2017. 

Despite the differences, Qatar reached out to Bahraini officials to inquire about how Qatar could assist in the travelers’ efforts to return home.

"Qatar offered to fly the Bahraini citizens on a private charter flight to Bahrain at no expense to the individuals or the government of Bahrain," the GCO statement mentioned.

However, "the government of Bahrain declined this option. Bahraini officials have said they will send a flight for them at some undefined point in the future," GCO added.

At a time when the world is facing one of the most severe health challenges, Qatar continues to stress the importance of the health and safety of all individuals in the country, and around the world.

"The Ministry of Public Health has administered coronavirus tests for the 31 Bahraini citizens and provided them with accommodation in a quarantine hotel at no cost to them or the government of Bahrain," the GCO statement highlighted.

According to the statement, if any of them tests positive, they will be given free and full health care.

"Those testing negative will continue to observe self-isolation for two weeks at a quarantine hotel, at no expense to them," GCO said.

"It is our hope that by the end of this two-week quarantine, that the government of Bahrain will allow their citizens to return home. If not, we will continue to provide them with hospitality and care," GCO stated.

Meanwhile, Qatar's efforts to contain COVID-19 have been remarkable, and have been acknowledged by WHO Director-General recently.

The country set up quarantine facilities within a highly impressive, short period of time.

In addition to several of its measures, the country's rate of testing for COVID-19 has also been one of the highest in the world.

For any queries, or concerns related to COVID-19 in Qatar, the public can contact a 24/7 hotline set up by the Ministry. The hotline number is 16000 and is toll-free.

Here's everything you need to know about the virus, including ways to protect yourself. 

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Source: GCO