COVID-19: PCR drive through test facility at Muscat International Airport proves popular

Muscat: The newly commissioned drive through PCR testing facility available at the Muscat International Airport (MIA) is proving to be popular with users in a short span of time since it began its operations on 1 October. Sign posted at convenient intervals along the way, the brand new centre cannot be missed, as one enters the parking space of the airport.

There are two counters in operation currently where cars are guided through barricades for the registration and test. The registration and test cost RO 19 and the test results are available in 24 hours through an SMS or an email. For those requiring a Ministry of Health stamped certificate of the test result, a further RO 5 is charged and the same can be done only after the PCR test results are shared by the testing centre.

Attractive option

Graham Joseph from Holland, who had his PCR test done at the MIA drive through, commended the effort of the Oman Airports in making the PCR test facility a straight forward and simple process. “The easiness of the procedures and the safety it offers, as you don’t have to get off your vehicle, make it an attractive option. The day I had gone, there were some issues on registration process and only one lane was operational. But that was sorted out sooner and I am sure, these are just one time initial issues. The registration is very quick, and the testing is done in less than two minutes. The fee for PCR test at the airport drive-through is also much lesser than other private clinics.”

The test involves a nasal swab that is done by medical workers attired in PPE suits. The payment for registration is accepted only through a card and no cash transactions are accepted. There is also an option to register online and go for test directly, through the link https://covid19.moh.gov.om/#/ob-drivethru.