The multi-phased, comprehensive Qatar Clean program, which was been developed following a robust review of the best safety initiatives from around the world, ensures strict standards for hygiene and cleanliness at all tourist attractions in the country. Following initial testing, the program was rolled out in May and June this year for Phase 1 of Qatar’s reopening plan. Following review and continual improvement, it is now being extended to other sectors, such as restaurants and shopping malls, with best practices applied.
The first stage of the program was aimed at protecting hospitality workers and guests by setting standards for sterilisation and disinfection, which all hotel establishments must adhere to. The program complies with government guidelines on reducing the spread of Covid-19 and further complements independent measures being undertaken by hotels. Hotels that meet these requirements are certified "Qatar Clean", assuring guests of a safe experience. Since its introduction, nearly 100 hotels have been certified with more being reviewed.
Qatar is currently in the third phase of its four-phase reopening plan with hotel facilities, shopping malls, and many of the country’s health clubs and salons now open for business, with precautions in place.
Her Excellency Dr. Hanan Mohamed Al-Kuwari, Minister of Public Health said: “We welcome the implementation of the Qatar Clean program and are pleased to cooperate with the National Tourism Council to provide a safe and healthy tourism experience for the residents of Qatar in all the country’s hotels. We will study the expansion of the initiative and its potential application in other sectors, in order to ensure our continued success in limiting the spread of the Coronavirus (Covid-19) and maintaining the health and well-being of the people of Qatar.”
His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, Secretary General of QNTC and GCEO of Qatar Airways Group, remarked: “The Qatar Clean program is one of many initiatives by QNTC, in collaboration with our partners, to help the sector welcome back visitors to enjoy our world-renowned hospitality. We commend our partners at the Ministry of Public Health and in hospitality and are pleased to have launched this best in class program ahead of welcoming international visitors. We are confident this will engender trust in safe tourism in Qatar.”
To obtain a Qatar Clean certification, hotels must adhere to the following:
1. Each hotel facility must appoint a Qatar Clean Program Manager who will be responsible for overseeing employee training and overall compliance with program requirements.
2. As part of the program, hotels must sterilise their facilities daily, conduct a frequent and thorough cleaning, use disinfectant in all rooms, air conditioning systems, equipment, water tanks, toilets, and ensure stringent sterilisation of designated guest areas, especially reception halls and lobbies.
3. The use of elevators by multiple guests at the same time will be prohibited, with a maximum capacity of 30%.
4. In order to reduce contact with guests, hotels must adopt mobile or other contactless procedures for check-in and check out while optimising spaces to maintain a distance of at least two meters between individuals.
5. Hotels must carry out daily temperature checks on all employees at the start of their shifts, as well as on suppliers and guests. Anyone exhibiting symptoms must immediately be placed in isolation, and the Ministry of Public Health contacted.
Joint committees from QNTC and MOPH will continue to inspect hotels and their facilities to ensure program standards are being applied and adhered to, with penalties imposed for non-compliance.
The Qatar Clean program is part of an extensive safety program across Qatar to control the spread of Covid-19. The country has also introduced a track and trace app, Ehteraz, which is mandatory for all residents and citizens. The app uses a colour system through its QR code functionality to identify users’ health status, notifying those who have come in close contact with anyone exposed to Covid-19. Other mandatory measures include wearing face masks and social distancing.
Passengers arriving at Hamad International Airport undergo thermal screening, temperature checks and a Covid-19 PCR test. To ensure the safety of passengers, the airport is also regularly sanitising all surfaces and baggage.
To find out more information or to see which attractions are open, head to www.visitqatar.qa
