Policy responses to the COVID-19 pandemic are assessed by documenting the public’s perception, knowledge, and adherence to preventive behaviors to mitigate the spread of the virus. Using an online survey administered in both Qatar and Kuwait, this article examines the associated state-mandated compliance measures experienced by citizens and expats during the outbreak of COVID-19. The survey measured public attitudes, behavioral responses, and compliance with state-mandated preventive measures. The study showed that individuals were well informed about the pandemic, yet controversy exists concerning compliance with control measures to contain the virus, which continue to be challenged on the basis of multiple individual-level factors. These findings raise the imperative need to call for governments’ transparent communications with the public regarding information disclosure measures to gain public attention and trust, which are essential to strategic planning success.
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