Saudi Arabia has announced that the Hajj pilgrimage will be held this year, but on a 'very limited' scale.
According to the country’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, people who are already in the Kingdom, are the only ones who will be able to take part.
The pilgrimage will be held for a limited number of pilgrims from various nationalities residing in the country, but the Ministry did not specify an exact number.
It cited the lack of an available vaccine and the risks of crowded gatherings.
"This decision is taken to ensure Hajj is performed in a safe manner from a public health perspective while observing all preventative measures and the necessary social distancing protocols to protect human beings from the risks associated with this pandemic and in accordance with the teachings of Islam in preserving the lives of human beings," the statement said.
Ministry of Hajj: Hajj 1441H Is Decided to Take Place This Year with Limited Number of Pilgrims from All Nationalities Residing in Saudi Arabia.https://t.co/NBpcGz4kmX#SPAGOV
— SPAENG (@Spa_Eng) June 22, 2020
Trump touts $5,000 payout if Republicans win as Vance waits in wings
Search expands after Philippine ferry fire kills five and leaves dozens missing
Trump says Iran war to end after US midterm elections
At least 20 killed in cargo vessel fire at China shipyard, state media reports
US military says it struck vessel in Caribbean, killing 3
At least 14 killed in explosion at weapons depot in Syria
US hits five Iranian oil tankers after attack on Navy ships
UK gives air traffic provider a week to probe outage that halted flights
