Breaking a three-year rule of restrictions to curb the Covid-19 pandemic, Saudi Arabia on Monday announced there will be no limit on the number of pilgrims for this year's Hajj.

Breaking a three-year rule of restrictions to curb the Covid-19 pandemic, Saudi Arabia on Monday announced there will be no limit on the number of pilgrims for this year's Hajj. The kingdom also scrapped the age limit of 18 to 65 for vaccinated pilgrims that was imposed due to the pandemic. "The number of pilgrims will return to what it was before the pandemic, without any age limit," Umrah Tawfiq al-Rabiah, minister of Hajj was quoted as saying by AFP. During the opening of #Hajj_Expo 2023, H.E. Minister of Hajj and Umrah Dr. Tawfiq AlRabiah announces: “Number of Hajj pilgrims in 1444H will return to how it was before the Coronavirus pandemic without age restrictions.”#Makkah_and_Madinah_Eagerly_Await_You pic.twitter.com/IZaPNqapIV — Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (@MoHU_En) January 9, 2023 × This year's Hajj pilgrimage is scheduled to begin in June. Last year, the kingdom opened its gates for nearly one million people with foreign visitors being allowed for the first time in two years. WATCH | Saudi Arabia: Women can now attend Hajj without male guardian × In the end, over 900,000 pilgrims, including some 780,000 from abroad visited the holy sites of Mecca and Medina for the pilgrimage. Last year in October, the Saudi authorities, took another progressive step and announced that a woman pilgrim no longer needed to be accompanied by a male guardian or 'mahram' to perform Hajj. Experts believe that such changes are expected to drive the number of pilgrims visiting the country substantially. Additionally, local reports have stated that the ministry will give priority to those during the registration who have not made the pilgrimage before. Read more: Saudi Arabia: Women Hajj pilgrims no longer need to be accompanied by male guardian The pilgrimage is one of five pillars of Islam, which all able-bodied Muslims with the means are required to perform at least once. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

No restrictions on number of Hajj pilgrims this year, announces Saudi Arabia

A woman pilgrim no longer needs to be accompanied by a male guardian or 'mahram' to perform Hajj or Umrah in Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;

This announcement was made by Saudi Arabia's Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah, that women travelling to the country can now do the pilgrimage without a mahram.

The minister's comments during a press conference held at the kingdom's embassy in Cairo brought an end to the controversy about whether a mahram is required to accompany a woman or not.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-yemeni-man-arrested-after-claiming-mecca-pilgrimage-for-queen-elizabeth-ii-515758">Also read |&nbsp;Saudi Arabia: Yemeni man arrested after claiming Mecca pilgrimage for Queen Elizabeth II</a>

He said there is no quota or ceiling for Umrah visas for Muslims all across the world. He said that Muslims coming to the kingdom with any visas will be allowed to perform Umrah.

Al-Rabiah added that the cost of expanding the Great Mosque in Mecca has already reached nearly 200 billion Saudi Riyals or over $53 billion. This is by far the biggest and most expensive expansion in history.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-woman-recently-sentenced-to-45-year-prison-was-charged-for-tweeting-against-king-prince-report-513583">Also read |&nbsp;Saudi woman recently sentenced to 45-year prison was charged for tweeting against King, Prince: Report</a>

The minister stated that the ministry is working towards reducing the cost of performing Hajj, in an effort to make it feasible for everyone.

As per a former adviser to the Minister of Hajj, writer Faten Ibrahim Hussein said that the facilities are provided to achieve Saudi's 2030 vision.&nbsp;

She further added that the security in the kingdom has expanded with all means of transportation and facilities making it easier for visitors. &nbsp;She said, "There are many women who come to the Kingdom to work without a mahram, and there are no significant incidents, thanks to the security we live in…There is no fear for women to come without a mahram because the reason for that no longer exists," Arab News reported.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A woman pilgrim no longer needs to be accompanied by a male guardian or 'mahram' to perform Hajj or Umrah in Saudi Arabia. This announcement was made by Saudi Arabia's Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah, that women travelling to the country can now do the pilgrimage without a mahram.

A woman pilgrim no longer needs to be accompanied by a male guardian or 'mahram' to perform Hajj or Umrah in Saudi Arabia. This announcement was made by Saudi Arabia's Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah, that women travelling to the country can now do the pilgrimage without a mahram. The minister's comments during a press conference held at the kingdom's embassy in Cairo brought an end to the controversy about whether a mahram is required to accompany a woman or not. Also read | Saudi Arabia: Yemeni man arrested after claiming Mecca pilgrimage for Queen Elizabeth II He said there is no quota or ceiling for Umrah visas for Muslims all across the world. He said that Muslims coming to the kingdom with any visas will be allowed to perform Umrah. Al-Rabiah added that the cost of expanding the Great Mosque in Mecca has already reached nearly 200 billion Saudi Riyals or over $53 billion. This is by far the biggest and most expensive expansion in history. Also read | Saudi woman recently sentenced to 45-year prison was charged for tweeting against King, Prince: Report The minister stated that the ministry is working towards reducing the cost of performing Hajj, in an effort to make it feasible for everyone. As per a former adviser to the Minister of Hajj, writer Faten Ibrahim Hussein said that the facilities are provided to achieve Saudi's 2030 vision. She further added that the security in the kingdom has expanded with all means of transportation and facilities making it easier for visitors. She said, "There are many women who come to the Kingdom to work without a mahram, and there are no significant incidents, thanks to the security we live in…There is no fear for women to come without a mahram because the reason for that no longer exists," Arab News reported. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Saudi Arabia: Women Hajj pilgrims no longer need to be accompanied by male guardian

A woman pilgrim no longer needs to be accompanied by a male guardian or 'mahram' to perform Hajj or Umrah in Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Arabia: Women can now attend Hajj without male guardian

A citizen of Saudi Arabia was detained and thrown over to the Public Prosecution after it was claimed that he helped an Israeli-American journalist reach Mecca, the holiest shrine in Islam and a place that only Muslims are permitted to visit.

In violation of a restriction on non-Muslims, journalist Gil Tamary of Israel’s Channel 13 posted a video on Twitter on Monday showing himself sneaking into Mecca, the holiest city of Islam.

According to a police spokeswoman quoted by the Saudi Press Agency, Mecca regional police have “referred a citizen” to prosecutors for alleged involvement in “transferring and aiding the arrival of a (non-Muslim) journalist.”

The journalist, who is an American citizen, has also had his case forwarded to prosecutors so they can “take the necessary procedures against him in compliance with the applied laws,” according to Saudi Press Agency, which did not give the journalist’s identity. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-welcomes-1-million-for-biggest-hajj-pilgrimage-since-pandemic-494576">Also read | Saudi Arabia welcomes 1 million for biggest hajj pilgrimage since pandemic</a>

Saudi Arabia does not recognise Israel and did not sign the 2020 Abraham Accords, which were mediated by the US and saw the Jewish state forge connections with two of the kingdom’s neighbours, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain, despite developing behind-the-scenes business and security contacts.

In his approximately ten-minute video, Tamary travels to Mount Arafat, where robed Muslim pilgrims assemble each year to pray at the pinnacle of the hajj pilgrimage.

He states unequivocally that he is aware his actions are forbidden, but yet claims he did it to highlight “a site that is so significant to our Muslim brothers and sisters.”

Tamary’s defence and later apologies failed to appease angry Saudi online comments.&nbsp;

Gil Tamary, the foreign affairs correspondent for Israel’s Channel 13, reported last Sunday that he was the first to finish a news report in Hebrew at the holiest place in Islam. Tamary acknowledged at the outset of his report, which the station aired, that he had entered Mecca without the Saudi government’s consent.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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A citizen of Saudi Arabia was detained and thrown over to the Public Prosecution after it was claimed that he helped an Israeli-American journalist reach Mecca, the holiest shrine in Islam and a place that only Muslims are permitted to visit.

A citizen of Saudi Arabia was detained and thrown over to the Public Prosecution after it was claimed that he helped an Israeli-American journalist reach Mecca, the holiest shrine in Islam and a place that only Muslims are permitted to visit. In violation of a restriction on non-Muslims, journalist Gil Tamary of Israel’s Channel 13 posted a video on Twitter on Monday showing himself sneaking into Mecca, the holiest city of Islam. According to a police spokeswoman quoted by the Saudi Press Agency, Mecca regional police have “referred a citizen” to prosecutors for alleged involvement in “transferring and aiding the arrival of a (non-Muslim) journalist.” The journalist, who is an American citizen, has also had his case forwarded to prosecutors so they can “take the necessary procedures against him in compliance with the applied laws,” according to Saudi Press Agency, which did not give the journalist’s identity. Also read | Saudi Arabia welcomes 1 million for biggest hajj pilgrimage since pandemic Saudi Arabia does not recognise Israel and did not sign the 2020 Abraham Accords, which were mediated by the US and saw the Jewish state forge connections with two of the kingdom’s neighbours, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain, despite developing behind-the-scenes business and security contacts. In his approximately ten-minute video, Tamary travels to Mount Arafat, where robed Muslim pilgrims assemble each year to pray at the pinnacle of the hajj pilgrimage. He states unequivocally that he is aware his actions are forbidden, but yet claims he did it to highlight “a site that is so significant to our Muslim brothers and sisters.” Tamary’s defence and later apologies failed to appease angry Saudi online comments. Gil Tamary, the foreign affairs correspondent for Israel’s Channel 13, reported last Sunday that he was the first to finish a news report in Hebrew at the holiest place in Islam. Tamary acknowledged at the outset of his report, which the station aired, that he had entered Mecca without the Saudi government’s consent. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Non-Muslim journalist enters Mecca; Saudi police arrest citizen who helped him

From Sri Lanka’s crisis to Hajj Muslims performing the symbolic ‘stoning of the devil’, here are some impactful images from around the world.

World in Pictures: Sri Lanka in crisis; Hajj Muslims perform ‘stoning of devil’

Hundreds of thousands of mostly maskless worshippers circled Islam's holiest site in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday, on the first day of the biggest hajj pilgrimage since the Covid-19 pandemic began.

The West Asia Post | 1 million Muslims mark largest Hajj since pandemic

The holiest pilgrimage in Islam begins in Saudi Arabia. A million pilgrims from across the world have gathered in the holy city of Mecca. However, this year Hajj begins with an added challenge.

WION Climate Tracker: Saudi Arabia hosts 1Mn worshippers this week with an added challenge

White-robed worshippers from around the world have packed the streets of Islam's holiest city ahead of the biggest hajj pilgrimage since&nbsp;the coronavirus&nbsp;pandemic&nbsp;began.

Banners welcoming the faithful, including the first international visitors&nbsp;since&nbsp;2019, adorned squares and alleys, while armed security forces patrolled the ancient city, birthplace of the Prophet Mohammed.

"This is pure joy," Sudanese pilgrim Abdel Qader Kheder told AFP in Mecca, before the event which officially starts Wednesday. "I almost can't believe I am here. I am enjoying every moment."

One&nbsp;million&nbsp;people, including 850,000 from abroad, are allowed at this year's&nbsp;hajj&nbsp;after two years of drastically curtailed numbers due to the&nbsp;pandemic. The&nbsp;pilgrimage&nbsp;is one of five pillars of Islam, which all able-bodied Muslims with the means are required to perform at least once.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hajj-pilgrimage-confusion-among-travellers-over-new-saudi-registration-system-492290">Travel cos face losses, applicants confused over Saudi's Hajj registration system</a>

At least 650,000 overseas pilgrims have arrived so far in&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;Arabia, the authorities said on Sunday.

But authorities on Monday barred nearly 100,000 people from entering Mecca, imposing a security cordon around the holy city. A security official said 288 people were arrested and fined for attempting to perform the&nbsp;hajj&nbsp;without permits.

In 2019, about 2.5&nbsp;million&nbsp;people took part in the rituals, which also include gathering at Mount Arafat and "stoning the devil" in Mina.

The following year, when the&nbsp;pandemic&nbsp;took hold, foreigners were barred and worshippers were restricted to just 10,000 to stop the&nbsp;hajj&nbsp;from turning into a global super-spreader.

That figure rose to 60,000 fully vaccinated&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;citizens and residents in 2021.

Pilgrims this year -- only those younger than 65 are allowed -- will participate under strict sanitary conditions.

The&nbsp;hajj&nbsp;has seen numerous disasters over the years, including a 2015 stampede that killed up to 2,300 people and a 1979 attack by hundreds of gunmen that, according to the official toll, left 153 dead.

Unaccompanied women&nbsp;

On Monday afternoon, pilgrims carrying umbrellas to shield themselves from the scorching sun flocked to souvenir and barber shops in Mecca, while others shared meals under palm trees on streets close to the Grand Mosque.

Many new arrivals had already begun performing the first ritual, which requires walking seven times around the Kaaba, the large black cubic structure at the centre of the Grand Mosque.

Made from granite and draped in a cloth featuring verses from the Koran, the Kaaba stands nearly 15 metres (50 feet) tall. It is the structure all Muslims turn towards to pray, no matter where they are in the world.

"When I first saw the Kaaba I felt something weird and started crying," Egyptian pilgrim Mohammed Lotfi told AFP.

Watch |&nbsp;The West Asia Post | Saudi Hajj lottery system slammed by pilgrims

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The&nbsp;pilgrimage&nbsp;is a powerful source of prestige for the conservative desert kingdom and its de facto ruler, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who is returning from the diplomatic wilderness.

The&nbsp;hajj, which&nbsp;costs at least $5,000 per person, is a money-spinner for the world's&nbsp;biggest&nbsp;oil exporter trying to diversify its economy. In normal years the&nbsp;pilgrimage&nbsp;brings in billions of dollars.

It is also a chance to showcase the kingdom's rapid social transformation, despite persistent complaints about human rights abuses and limits on personal freedoms.

Saudi&nbsp;Arabia now allows women to attend the&nbsp;hajj&nbsp;unaccompanied by male relatives, a requirement that was dropped last year.

Serenity

Masks are no longer compulsory in most enclosed spaces in&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;Arabia but they will be mandatory at the Grand Mosque, the holiest site in Islam. Pilgrims from abroad will have to submit a negative PCR test result.&nbsp;

The Grand Mosque will be "washed 10 times a day... by more than 4,000 male and female workers", with more than 130,000 litres (34,000 gallons) of disinfectant used each time, authorities said.

Since&nbsp;the start of the&nbsp;pandemic,&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;Arabia has registered more than 795,000 coronavirus cases, 9,000 of them fatal, in a population of about 34&nbsp;million.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/saudi-arabia-welcomes-first-foreign-pilgrims-after-covid-hiatus-485076">Saudi Arabia welcomes first foreign pilgrims after COVID-19 hiatus</a>

Aside from Covid, another challenge is the scorching sun in one of the world's hottest and driest regions, where temperatures have already topped 50 degrees Celsius (122 Fahrenheit) in parts of&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;Arabia.

But Iraqi pilgrim Ahmed Abdul-Hassan al-Fatlawi said the heat is the last thing he thinks of when in Mecca.

"I am 60 years old, so it's normal if I get physically tired because of the hot weather, but I am in a state of serenity, and that's all that matters to me," he told AFP. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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White-robed worshippers from around the world have packed the streets of Islam's holiest city ahead of the biggest hajj pilgrimage since the coronavirus pandemic began.

White-robed worshippers from around the world have packed the streets of Islam's holiest city ahead of the biggest hajj pilgrimage since the coronavirus pandemic began. Banners welcoming the faithful, including the first international visitors since 2019, adorned squares and alleys, while armed security forces patrolled the ancient city, birthplace of the Prophet Mohammed. "This is pure joy," Sudanese pilgrim Abdel Qader Kheder told AFP in Mecca, before the event which officially starts Wednesday. "I almost can't believe I am here. I am enjoying every moment." One million people, including 850,000 from abroad, are allowed at this year's hajj after two years of drastically curtailed numbers due to the pandemic. The pilgrimage is one of five pillars of Islam, which all able-bodied Muslims with the means are required to perform at least once. Also read | Travel cos face losses, applicants confused over Saudi's Hajj registration system At least 650,000 overseas pilgrims have arrived so far in Saudi Arabia, the authorities said on Sunday. But authorities on Monday barred nearly 100,000 people from entering Mecca, imposing a security cordon around the holy city. A security official said 288 people were arrested and fined for attempting to perform the hajj without permits. In 2019, about 2.5 million people took part in the rituals, which also include gathering at Mount Arafat and "stoning the devil" in Mina. The following year, when the pandemic took hold, foreigners were barred and worshippers were restricted to just 10,000 to stop the hajj from turning into a global super-spreader. That figure rose to 60,000 fully vaccinated Saudi citizens and residents in 2021. Pilgrims this year -- only those younger than 65 are allowed -- will participate under strict sanitary conditions. The hajj has seen numerous disasters over the years, including a 2015 stampede that killed up to 2,300 people and a 1979 attack by hundreds of gunmen that, according to the official toll, left 153 dead. Unaccompanied women On Monday afternoon, pilgrims carrying umbrellas to shield themselves from the scorching sun flocked to souvenir and barber shops in Mecca, while others shared meals under palm trees on streets close to the Grand Mosque. Many new arrivals had already begun performing the first ritual, which requires walking seven times around the Kaaba, the large black cubic structure at the centre of the Grand Mosque. Made from granite and draped in a cloth featuring verses from the Koran, the Kaaba stands nearly 15 metres (50 feet) tall. It is the structure all Muslims turn towards to pray, no matter where they are in the world. "When I first saw the Kaaba I felt something weird and started crying," Egyptian pilgrim Mohammed Lotfi told AFP. Watch | The West Asia Post | Saudi Hajj lottery system slammed by pilgrims The pilgrimage is a powerful source of prestige for the conservative desert kingdom and its de facto ruler, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who is returning from the diplomatic wilderness. The hajj, which costs at least $5,000 per person, is a money-spinner for the world's biggest oil exporter trying to diversify its economy. In normal years the pilgrimage brings in billions of dollars. It is also a chance to showcase the kingdom's rapid social transformation, despite persistent complaints about human rights abuses and limits on personal freedoms. Saudi Arabia now allows women to attend the hajj unaccompanied by male relatives, a requirement that was dropped last year. Serenity Masks are no longer compulsory in most enclosed spaces in Saudi Arabia but they will be mandatory at the Grand Mosque, the holiest site in Islam. Pilgrims from abroad will have to submit a negative PCR test result. The Grand Mosque will be "washed 10 times a day... by more than 4,000 male and female workers", with more than 130,000 litres (34,000 gallons) of disinfectant used each time, authorities said. Since the start of the pandemic, Saudi Arabia has registered more than 795,000 coronavirus cases, 9,000 of them fatal, in a population of about 34 million. Also read | Saudi Arabia welcomes first foreign pilgrims after COVID-19 hiatus Aside from Covid, another challenge is the scorching sun in one of the world's hottest and driest regions, where temperatures have already topped 50 degrees Celsius (122 Fahrenheit) in parts of Saudi Arabia. But Iraqi pilgrim Ahmed Abdul-Hassan al-Fatlawi said the heat is the last thing he thinks of when in Mecca. "I am 60 years old, so it's normal if I get physically tired because of the hot weather, but I am in a state of serenity, and that's all that matters to me," he told AFP. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Saudi Arabia welcomes 1 million for biggest hajj pilgrimage since pandemic

Saudi Arabia welcomes first foreign pilgrims after COVID-19 hiatus

In a significant stride towards women empowerment, dozens of female soldiers have become a part of the security services that monitor pilgrims in Mecca and Medina, the birthplaces of Islam. For the first time, Saudi female soldiers are standing guard in Mecca as thousands of Muslim pilgrims take part in this year's haj. Women dressed in military khaki uniforms were seen monitoring the security situation in the Grand Mosque in Mecca. Along with khaki, they were sporting a hip-length jacket, loose trousers, and a black beret over a veil covering their hair.

For the first time, Saudi women stand guard in Mecca during Haj

Inspired by her late father's career, Mona decided to join the military and the first group of Saudi women soldiers to work in Islam's holiest sites, where they are helping secure the haj annual pilgrimage.

Since April, dozens of female soldiers have become part of the security services that monitor pilgrims in Mecca and Medina, the birth places of Islam.

Dressed in a military khaki uniform, with a hip-length jacket, loose trousers and a black beret over a veil covering her hair, Mona spends her shifts roaming in the Grand Mosque in Mecca.

"I am following the steps of my late father to complete his journey, standing here at the Grand mosque in Mecca, the holiest place. To serve the worshippers is a very noble and honourable task," said Mona, who declined to give her family name.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has pushed through social and economic reforms as part of plans to modernise the conservative Muslim kingdom and attract foreign investment under a diversification drive.

Under his reform plan, known as Vision 2030, the crown prince lifted a driving ban on women, allowed adult women to travel without permission from guardians and granted them more control over family matters.

But the reform plan has been accompanied by a crackdown on dissent, including on women's rights activists.

Saudi Arabia has restricted the haj to its own citizens and residents for the second year in a row, barring millions of other pilgrims from abroad in response to the coronavirus pandemic.

Samar, another soldier watching pilgrims near the Kaaba, a cube-shaped structure that Muslims believe was built by Abraham, said she was encouraged by her family to join the military, after psychology studies.

"This is a huge accomplishment for us and it is the biggest pride to be in the service of religion, the country and the guests of God, the most merciful," she said.

Inspired by her late father's career, Mona decided to join the military and the first group of Saudi women soldiers to work in Islam's holiest sites, where they are helping secure the haj annual pilgrimage.

Inspired by her late father's career, Mona decided to join the military and the first group of Saudi women soldiers to work in Islam's holiest sites, where they are helping secure the haj annual pilgrimage. Since April, dozens of female soldiers have become part of the security services that monitor pilgrims in Mecca and Medina, the birth places of Islam. Dressed in a military khaki uniform, with a hip-length jacket, loose trousers and a black beret over a veil covering her hair, Mona spends her shifts roaming in the Grand Mosque in Mecca. "I am following the steps of my late father to complete his journey, standing here at the Grand mosque in Mecca, the holiest place. To serve the worshippers is a very noble and honourable task," said Mona, who declined to give her family name. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has pushed through social and economic reforms as part of plans to modernise the conservative Muslim kingdom and attract foreign investment under a diversification drive. Under his reform plan, known as Vision 2030, the crown prince lifted a driving ban on women, allowed adult women to travel without permission from guardians and granted them more control over family matters. But the reform plan has been accompanied by a crackdown on dissent, including on women's rights activists. Saudi Arabia has restricted the haj to its own citizens and residents for the second year in a row, barring millions of other pilgrims from abroad in response to the coronavirus pandemic. Samar, another soldier watching pilgrims near the Kaaba, a cube-shaped structure that Muslims believe was built by Abraham, said she was encouraged by her family to join the military, after psychology studies. "This is a huge accomplishment for us and it is the biggest pride to be in the service of religion, the country and the guests of God, the most merciful," she said.

For the first time, Saudi women stand guard in Mecca during haj

Fewer pilgrims than normal flocked to the city of Mina, the first of the three-day stoning of the devil ritual amid the coronavirus. The annual ritual usually brings millions of worshippers from all over the world shoulder to shoulder. Clad in white robes denoting a state of purity and face masks, men and women cast their stones in Mina, a neighbourhood east of Mecca. After their third day of stoning, pilgrims will go back to Mecca to pray at the Grand Mosque at the end of haj.

Hajj pilgrims take part in first of three-day 'stoning of the devil' ritual

In Pics: Pilgrims arrive in Mecca for second pandemic hajj

Pilgrims will begin to arrive in the Muslim holy city of&nbsp;Mecca&nbsp;on Saturday for the second downsized hajj staged during the coronavirus pandemic with only fully vaccinated residents permitted to participate.

The kingdom seeks to repeat last year's success that saw no virus outbreak during the five-day ritual but nonetheless caused resentment among Muslims abroad.

It is allowing 60,000 residents of Saudi Arabia to participate through a lottery, higher than in 2020 but drastically lower than in normal times. Religious rites will begin on Sunday.

Among the chosen ones was Ameen, a 58-year-old Indian oil contractor based in the eastern city of Dammam, who was picked for the ritual along with his wife and three adult children.

"We are overjoyed," said Ameen, who only gave his first name.

"So many of our friends and relatives were rejected," he told AFP.

In 2019, some 2.5 million Muslims from around the world participated in the annual hajj -- a key pillar of Islam that is a must for able-bodied Muslims at least once in their lifetime.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-proposes-second-phase-of-studies-into-the-origins-of-covid-19-in-china-398556">Also read |&nbsp;WHO proposes second phase of studies into the origins of COVID-19 in China</a>

Earlier this month, the hajj ministry said it was working on the "highest levels of health precautions" in light of the pandemic and the emergence of new variants.

Like the other countries of the Gulf, Saudi Arabia is home to significant expatriate populations from South Asia, the Far East, Africa as well as the Middle East.

"I feel like I won a lottery," Egyptian pharmacist Mohammed El Eter said after being selected.

"This is a special, unforgettable moment in one's life. I thank God for granting me this chance, to be accepted among a lot of people who applied," the 31-year-old told AFP.

'Restrict exposure'

Workers were shown on the Al-Ekhbariya news channel disinfecting the area in the Grand Mosque around the Kaaba -- the focal point of Islam, towards which all Muslims pray -- in anticipation of the start of rituals.

On Saturday the faithful will begin circling the Kaaba before officially starting the hajj on Sunday.

Chosen from more than 558,000 applicants through an online vetting system, the event is confined to those who have been fully vaccinated and are aged 18-65 with no chronic illnesses, according to the hajj ministry.

Pilgrims will be divided into groups of just 20 "to restrict any exposure to only those 20, limiting the spread of infection", ministry undersecretary Mohammad al-Bijawi told official media.

Saudi Arabia has so far recorded more than 507,000 coronavirus infections, including over 8,000 deaths.

More than 20 million vaccine doses against coronavirus have been administered in the country of over 34 million people.&nbsp;

The hajj went ahead last year on the smallest scale in modern history, with authorities initially saying only 1,000 pilgrims would be allowed before local media said up to 10,000 took part.

No infections were reported as authorities set up multiple health facilities, mobile clinics and ambulances to cater for the pilgrims, who were taken to the religious sites in small batches.

In normal years, the pilgrimage packs large crowds into congested religious sites, but even this year's downscaled events are seen as a potential mechanism for contagion.

'Biggest challenge'

"The biggest challenge of this hajj season will be for it to pass off without any Covid-19 infections," a doctor working at a hospital in&nbsp;Mecca&nbsp;told AFP by phone.

Worshippers were last year given amenity kits including sterilised pebbles for the "stoning of Satan" ritual, disinfectants, masks, a prayer rug and the ihram, a traditional seamless white hajj garment, made from a bacteria-resistant material.&nbsp;

Hosting the hajj is a matter of prestige for Saudi rulers, for whom the custodianship of Islam's holiest sites is their most powerful source of political legitimacy.&nbsp;

But barring overseas pilgrims has caused resentment and deep disappointment among Muslims worldwide, who typically save for years to take part.

The hajj ministry received anguished queries on Twitter from rejected applicants about the tightly controlled government lottery.

"We are still anxiously waiting to be accepted, as though we're facing an exam," wrote one Twitter user.

And in addition to the many virus-related obstacles, the price of participating in this year's hajj, including official taxes, is 12,000 riyals ($3,200).

Pilgrims will begin to arrive in the Muslim holy city of Mecca on Saturday for the second downsized hajj staged during the coronavirus pandemic with only fully vaccinated residents permitted to participate.

Pilgrims will begin to arrive in the Muslim holy city of Mecca on Saturday for the second downsized hajj staged during the coronavirus pandemic with only fully vaccinated residents permitted to participate. The kingdom seeks to repeat last year's success that saw no virus outbreak during the five-day ritual but nonetheless caused resentment among Muslims abroad. It is allowing 60,000 residents of Saudi Arabia to participate through a lottery, higher than in 2020 but drastically lower than in normal times. Religious rites will begin on Sunday. Among the chosen ones was Ameen, a 58-year-old Indian oil contractor based in the eastern city of Dammam, who was picked for the ritual along with his wife and three adult children. "We are overjoyed," said Ameen, who only gave his first name. "So many of our friends and relatives were rejected," he told AFP. In 2019, some 2.5 million Muslims from around the world participated in the annual hajj -- a key pillar of Islam that is a must for able-bodied Muslims at least once in their lifetime. Also read | WHO proposes second phase of studies into the origins of COVID-19 in China Earlier this month, the hajj ministry said it was working on the "highest levels of health precautions" in light of the pandemic and the emergence of new variants. Like the other countries of the Gulf, Saudi Arabia is home to significant expatriate populations from South Asia, the Far East, Africa as well as the Middle East. "I feel like I won a lottery," Egyptian pharmacist Mohammed El Eter said after being selected. "This is a special, unforgettable moment in one's life. I thank God for granting me this chance, to be accepted among a lot of people who applied," the 31-year-old told AFP. 'Restrict exposure' Workers were shown on the Al-Ekhbariya news channel disinfecting the area in the Grand Mosque around the Kaaba -- the focal point of Islam, towards which all Muslims pray -- in anticipation of the start of rituals. On Saturday the faithful will begin circling the Kaaba before officially starting the hajj on Sunday. Chosen from more than 558,000 applicants through an online vetting system, the event is confined to those who have been fully vaccinated and are aged 18-65 with no chronic illnesses, according to the hajj ministry. Pilgrims will be divided into groups of just 20 "to restrict any exposure to only those 20, limiting the spread of infection", ministry undersecretary Mohammad al-Bijawi told official media. Saudi Arabia has so far recorded more than 507,000 coronavirus infections, including over 8,000 deaths. More than 20 million vaccine doses against coronavirus have been administered in the country of over 34 million people. The hajj went ahead last year on the smallest scale in modern history, with authorities initially saying only 1,000 pilgrims would be allowed before local media said up to 10,000 took part. No infections were reported as authorities set up multiple health facilities, mobile clinics and ambulances to cater for the pilgrims, who were taken to the religious sites in small batches. In normal years, the pilgrimage packs large crowds into congested religious sites, but even this year's downscaled events are seen as a potential mechanism for contagion. 'Biggest challenge' "The biggest challenge of this hajj season will be for it to pass off without any Covid-19 infections," a doctor working at a hospital in Mecca told AFP by phone. Worshippers were last year given amenity kits including sterilised pebbles for the "stoning of Satan" ritual, disinfectants, masks, a prayer rug and the ihram, a traditional seamless white hajj garment, made from a bacteria-resistant material. Hosting the hajj is a matter of prestige for Saudi rulers, for whom the custodianship of Islam's holiest sites is their most powerful source of political legitimacy. But barring overseas pilgrims has caused resentment and deep disappointment among Muslims worldwide, who typically save for years to take part. The hajj ministry received anguished queries on Twitter from rejected applicants about the tightly controlled government lottery. "We are still anxiously waiting to be accepted, as though we're facing an exam," wrote one Twitter user. And in addition to the many virus-related obstacles, the price of participating in this year's hajj, including official taxes, is 12,000 riyals ($3,200).

Pilgrims head to Mecca for second hajj during pandemic

Saudi&nbsp;Arabia will host another downsized hajj from Saturday, with only residents fully vaccinated against the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> permitted and overseas Muslim pilgrims barred for a second year.

The kingdom seeks to repeat last year's success that saw no virus outbreak during the five-day Muslim ritual.

It is allowing 60,000 residents of&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;Arabia to participate, higher than in 2020 but drastically lower than in normal times. People will begin to arrive on Saturday, a day before the start of rites.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-allows-60000-vaccinated-residents-on-hajj-bars-foreigners-again-391155">Saudi allows 60,000 vaccinated residents on hajj, bars foreigners again</a>

In 2019, some 2.5 million Muslims from around the world participated in the annual hajj, a key pillar of Islam that is a must for able-bodied Muslims at least once in their lifetime.

Earlier this month, the hajj ministry said it was working on the "highest levels of health precautions" in light of the pandemic and the emergence of new variants.

Chosen from more than 558,000 applicants through an online vetting system, the event is confined to those who have been fully vaccinated and are aged 18-65 with no chronic illnesses, it said.

The pilgrimage, which typically packs large crowds into congested religious sites, is potentially a super-spreader of the virus.&nbsp;

Aside from strict social distancing measures, the ministry said it will introduce a "smart hajj card" to allow contact-free access to camps, hotels and buses to ferry pilgrims around religious sites.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-suspends-uae-flights-due-to-virus-variant-395578">Saudi suspends UAE flights due to virus variant</a>

The card system would also help track down any missing pilgrims, it added.

Authorities have deployed black-and-white robots to dispense bottles of sacred water from the Zamzam spring in Mecca's Grand Mosque, built around the Kaaba, the black cubic structure towards which Muslims around the world pray.

The revered Black Stone&nbsp;in the Kaaba, which it is customary but not mandatory to touch during the pilgrimage, is expected to be kept out of reach.

'Frustration is growing'&nbsp;

Saudi&nbsp;Arabia has so far recorded more than 503,000 coronavirus infections, including over 8,000 deaths.

More than 20 million <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccine</a> doses against coronavirus have been administered in the country of over 34 million people.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-to-hold-haj-under-covid-safety-measures-384024">Saudi Arabia to hold Haj under Covid safety measures</a>

The hajj went ahead last year on the smallest scale in modern history, with authorities initially saying only 1,000 pilgrims were allowed but local media said up to 10,000 took part.

No infections were reported as authorities set up multiple health facilities, mobile clinics and ambulances to cater for the pilgrims, who were taken to the religious sites in small batches.

They were also given amenity kits that included sterilised pebbles for the "stoning of Satan" ritual, disinfectants, masks, a prayer rug and ihram, the traditional seamless white hajj garment, made from a bacteria-resistant material.&nbsp;

Hosting the hajj is a matter of prestige for&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;rulers, for whom the custodianship of Islam's holiest sites is their most powerful source of political legitimacy.&nbsp;

But barring overseas pilgrims has caused resentment and anguish among Muslims worldwide, who typically save for years to take part.

"The&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;government wants to play it completely safe by barring foreign pilgrims for the second consecutive year," Umar Karim, a visiting fellow at Britain’s Royal United Services Institute, told AFP.

"But frustration is growing across the Muslim world that could raise questions about the kingdom’s role as the custodian of holy mosques and result in a reduction of its religious soft power.

"It also spells disaster for the hajj economy worldwide."

'Weigh on recovery'&nbsp;

The hajj and year-round umrah pilgrimages are usually a key revenue earner for the kingdom, not to mention airlines and travel agencies. &nbsp;

In normal times, they together rake in some $12 billion (10.3 billion euros) annually, keeping the economy humming in Mecca.

But downsizing the rituals, which will run until Tuesday, the first day of post-Ramadan holidays, has hit government revenues and battered businesses that support hundreds of thousands of jobs in the holy city, from travel agents to street barbers and souvenir shops.

Mecca has seen a construction boom in recent years that added shopping malls, apartments and luxury hotels, some offering spectacular views of the sacred Kaaba.

But most premises have seen fewer customers since the pandemic.

"The&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;government's confirmation that the hajj pilgrimage will be extremely limited this year will weigh on the kingdom's economic recovery," said Capital Economics, a research consultancy.

"The government is clearly concerned that a larger hajj could spark a surge in COVID-19 cases and possibly risk importing new virus variants, which could force them to tighten restrictions that harm the economy."

Saudi Arabia will host another downsized hajj from Saturday, with only residents fully vaccinated against the coronavirus permitted and overseas Muslim pilgrims barred for a second year.

Saudi Arabia will host another downsized hajj from Saturday, with only residents fully vaccinated against the coronavirus permitted and overseas Muslim pilgrims barred for a second year. The kingdom seeks to repeat last year's success that saw no virus outbreak during the five-day Muslim ritual. It is allowing 60,000 residents of Saudi Arabia to participate, higher than in 2020 but drastically lower than in normal times. People will begin to arrive on Saturday, a day before the start of rites. Also read | Saudi allows 60,000 vaccinated residents on hajj, bars foreigners again In 2019, some 2.5 million Muslims from around the world participated in the annual hajj, a key pillar of Islam that is a must for able-bodied Muslims at least once in their lifetime. Earlier this month, the hajj ministry said it was working on the "highest levels of health precautions" in light of the pandemic and the emergence of new variants. Chosen from more than 558,000 applicants through an online vetting system, the event is confined to those who have been fully vaccinated and are aged 18-65 with no chronic illnesses, it said. The pilgrimage, which typically packs large crowds into congested religious sites, is potentially a super-spreader of the virus. Aside from strict social distancing measures, the ministry said it will introduce a "smart hajj card" to allow contact-free access to camps, hotels and buses to ferry pilgrims around religious sites. Also read | Saudi suspends UAE flights due to virus variant The card system would also help track down any missing pilgrims, it added. Authorities have deployed black-and-white robots to dispense bottles of sacred water from the Zamzam spring in Mecca's Grand Mosque, built around the Kaaba, the black cubic structure towards which Muslims around the world pray. The revered Black Stone in the Kaaba, which it is customary but not mandatory to touch during the pilgrimage, is expected to be kept out of reach. 'Frustration is growing' Saudi Arabia has so far recorded more than 503,000 coronavirus infections, including over 8,000 deaths. More than 20 million vaccine doses against coronavirus have been administered in the country of over 34 million people. Also read | Saudi Arabia to hold Haj under Covid safety measures The hajj went ahead last year on the smallest scale in modern history, with authorities initially saying only 1,000 pilgrims were allowed but local media said up to 10,000 took part. No infections were reported as authorities set up multiple health facilities, mobile clinics and ambulances to cater for the pilgrims, who were taken to the religious sites in small batches. They were also given amenity kits that included sterilised pebbles for the "stoning of Satan" ritual, disinfectants, masks, a prayer rug and ihram, the traditional seamless white hajj garment, made from a bacteria-resistant material. Hosting the hajj is a matter of prestige for Saudi rulers, for whom the custodianship of Islam's holiest sites is their most powerful source of political legitimacy. But barring overseas pilgrims has caused resentment and anguish among Muslims worldwide, who typically save for years to take part. "The Saudi government wants to play it completely safe by barring foreign pilgrims for the second consecutive year," Umar Karim, a visiting fellow at Britain’s Royal United Services Institute, told AFP. "But frustration is growing across the Muslim world that could raise questions about the kingdom’s role as the custodian of holy mosques and result in a reduction of its religious soft power. "It also spells disaster for the hajj economy worldwide." 'Weigh on recovery' The hajj and year-round umrah pilgrimages are usually a key revenue earner for the kingdom, not to mention airlines and travel agencies. In normal times, they together rake in some $12 billion (10.3 billion euros) annually, keeping the economy humming in Mecca. But downsizing the rituals, which will run until Tuesday, the first day of post-Ramadan holidays, has hit government revenues and battered businesses that support hundreds of thousands of jobs in the holy city, from travel agents to street barbers and souvenir shops. Mecca has seen a construction boom in recent years that added shopping malls, apartments and luxury hotels, some offering spectacular views of the sacred Kaaba. But most premises have seen fewer customers since the pandemic. "The Saudi government's confirmation that the hajj pilgrimage will be extremely limited this year will weigh on the kingdom's economic recovery," said Capital Economics, a research consultancy. "The government is clearly concerned that a larger hajj could spark a surge in COVID-19 cases and possibly risk importing new virus variants, which could force them to tighten restrictions that harm the economy."

Saudi hosts vaccinated pilgrims for second downsized hajj

Saudi&nbsp;Arabia&nbsp;announced Saturday it will allow 60,000 residents vaccinated against Covid to perform this year's hajj, but Muslims from abroad will be barred for a second straight year.

The hajj -- a must for able-bodied Muslims at least once in their lives -- typically packs millions of pilgrims into congested religious sites and could be a major source of contagion amid the coronavirus pandemic.

This year it would be "open for nationals and residents of the kingdom, limited to 60,000 pilgrims", the hajj ministry said, quoted by the official&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;Press Agency.

The pilgrimage, scheduled to be held in July, would be limited to those who have been vaccinated and are aged 18-65 with no chronic illnesses, it said.

Only up to 10,000 Muslims took part in last year's hajj, a far cry from the 2.5 million who participated in the five-day annual pilgrimage in 2019 before the pandemic.

"In light of what the whole world is witnessing with the coronavirus pandemic... and the emergence of new variants, the relevant authorities have continued to monitor the global health situation," the ministry said.

"Considering the large crowds that perform hajj, spending long periods of time in multiple and specific places... requires the highest levels of health precautions."

Saudi&nbsp;Arabia&nbsp;said those wishing to perform the hajj would have to apply online, without specifying how many foreign residents would be among the 60,000 pilgrims.

In 2020, foreigners were 70 percent of the pilgrims, while Saudis made up the rest.

The kingdom said it had informed other countries of the decision not to allow pilgrims from abroad.

"There was great understanding," deputy hajj minister, Abdulfattah bin Sulaiman Mashat, told a news conference.

"Arrangements for this were based on the kingdom's keenness on the pilgrims' health and the safety of their countries."

Vaccination drive

Pakistan's government said it supported the decision but there was disappointment among those hoping to make the pilgrimage.

"I am profoundly saddened... I also wanted to go for hajj last year. I was desperately hoping to make it this year and even had got myself vaccinated along with my wife," clothes merchant Zafar Ullah, 64, told AFP.

Mohammad Shakeel, a tour operator from Hajj Organisers Association of Pakistan, said the&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;decision would "further add" to financial losses faced by his company.

Riyadh is accelerating a nationwide vaccination drive as it moves to revive tourism and host sports and entertainment events, pandemic-hit sectors that are a bedrock of the "Vision 2030" program to diversify its oil-reliant economy.

It has approved the Pfizer/BioNTech, Moderna, Johnson &amp; Johnson, and AstraZeneca vaccines.

In May, only inoculated or immunized citizens were allowed to travel abroad after the kingdom lifted a ban on overseas trips introduced at the start of the pandemic.

The kingdom has also said that from August 1, vaccinations would be mandatory to enter government and private establishments, including educational institutions and entertainment venues, as well as to use public transport.

In a relaxation of coronavirus curbs last October,&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;Arabia&nbsp;opened the Grand Mosque for prayers for the first time in seven months and partially resumed the all-year-round umrah pilgrimage.

The limit on umrah pilgrims is 20,000 a day, with a total of 60,000 worshippers allowed to perform daily prayers at the mosque.

Authorities said the umrah -- which usually attracts millions of Muslims from across the globe -- would be allowed to return to full capacity once the threat of the pandemic has abated.

The revered Black Stone&nbsp;in the Kaaba -- which is customary but not mandatory to touch during the pilgrimage -- remains out of reach.

Loss of revenue&nbsp;

A scaled-down hajj represents a major loss of revenue for the kingdom, already reeling from the twin shocks of the virus-induced slowdown and a plunge in oil prices.

The hajj and the year-round umrah pilgrimages together rake in some $12 billion (10.3 billion euros) annually.

Last year, the foreign press were barred from the hajj, usually a huge global media event.

Saudi&nbsp;Arabia&nbsp;has so far recorded more than 460,000 coronavirus infections, including 7,537 deaths.

More than 15 million coronavirus vaccine doses have been administered in the country of over 34 million people.

Hosting the hajj is a matter of prestige for&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;rulers, for whom the custodianship of Islam's holiest sites is their most powerful source of political legitimacy.

But a series of deadly disasters over the years, including a 2015 stampede that killed up to 2,300 worshippers, has prompted criticism of the kingdom's management of the pilgrimage.

Saudi Arabia announced Saturday it will allow 60,000 residents vaccinated against Covid to perform this year's hajj, but Muslims from abroad will be barred for a second straight year.

Saudi Arabia announced Saturday it will allow 60,000 residents vaccinated against Covid to perform this year's hajj, but Muslims from abroad will be barred for a second straight year. The hajj -- a must for able-bodied Muslims at least once in their lives -- typically packs millions of pilgrims into congested religious sites and could be a major source of contagion amid the coronavirus pandemic. This year it would be "open for nationals and residents of the kingdom, limited to 60,000 pilgrims", the hajj ministry said, quoted by the official Saudi Press Agency. The pilgrimage, scheduled to be held in July, would be limited to those who have been vaccinated and are aged 18-65 with no chronic illnesses, it said. Only up to 10,000 Muslims took part in last year's hajj, a far cry from the 2.5 million who participated in the five-day annual pilgrimage in 2019 before the pandemic. "In light of what the whole world is witnessing with the coronavirus pandemic... and the emergence of new variants, the relevant authorities have continued to monitor the global health situation," the ministry said. "Considering the large crowds that perform hajj, spending long periods of time in multiple and specific places... requires the highest levels of health precautions." Saudi Arabia said those wishing to perform the hajj would have to apply online, without specifying how many foreign residents would be among the 60,000 pilgrims. In 2020, foreigners were 70 percent of the pilgrims, while Saudis made up the rest. The kingdom said it had informed other countries of the decision not to allow pilgrims from abroad. "There was great understanding," deputy hajj minister, Abdulfattah bin Sulaiman Mashat, told a news conference. "Arrangements for this were based on the kingdom's keenness on the pilgrims' health and the safety of their countries." Vaccination drive Pakistan's government said it supported the decision but there was disappointment among those hoping to make the pilgrimage. "I am profoundly saddened... I also wanted to go for hajj last year. I was desperately hoping to make it this year and even had got myself vaccinated along with my wife," clothes merchant Zafar Ullah, 64, told AFP. Mohammad Shakeel, a tour operator from Hajj Organisers Association of Pakistan, said the Saudi decision would "further add" to financial losses faced by his company. Riyadh is accelerating a nationwide vaccination drive as it moves to revive tourism and host sports and entertainment events, pandemic-hit sectors that are a bedrock of the "Vision 2030" program to diversify its oil-reliant economy. It has approved the Pfizer/BioNTech, Moderna, Johnson & Johnson, and AstraZeneca vaccines. In May, only inoculated or immunized citizens were allowed to travel abroad after the kingdom lifted a ban on overseas trips introduced at the start of the pandemic. The kingdom has also said that from August 1, vaccinations would be mandatory to enter government and private establishments, including educational institutions and entertainment venues, as well as to use public transport. In a relaxation of coronavirus curbs last October, Saudi Arabia opened the Grand Mosque for prayers for the first time in seven months and partially resumed the all-year-round umrah pilgrimage. The limit on umrah pilgrims is 20,000 a day, with a total of 60,000 worshippers allowed to perform daily prayers at the mosque. Authorities said the umrah -- which usually attracts millions of Muslims from across the globe -- would be allowed to return to full capacity once the threat of the pandemic has abated. The revered Black Stone in the Kaaba -- which is customary but not mandatory to touch during the pilgrimage -- remains out of reach. Loss of revenue A scaled-down hajj represents a major loss of revenue for the kingdom, already reeling from the twin shocks of the virus-induced slowdown and a plunge in oil prices. The hajj and the year-round umrah pilgrimages together rake in some $12 billion (10.3 billion euros) annually. Last year, the foreign press were barred from the hajj, usually a huge global media event. Saudi Arabia has so far recorded more than 460,000 coronavirus infections, including 7,537 deaths. More than 15 million coronavirus vaccine doses have been administered in the country of over 34 million people. Hosting the hajj is a matter of prestige for Saudi rulers, for whom the custodianship of Islam's holiest sites is their most powerful source of political legitimacy. But a series of deadly disasters over the years, including a 2015 stampede that killed up to 2,300 worshippers, has prompted criticism of the kingdom's management of the pilgrimage.

Saudi allows 60,000 vaccinated residents on hajj, bars foreigners again

COVID-19 has also impacted the Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia. The government has made COVID-19 vaccine jab mandatory for the pilgrims visiting Hajj.

'Only vaccinated pilgrims allowed in Mecca': Saudi Arabia

After Impacting other sectors, now COVID-19 has also impacted the Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia. The government has made COVID-19 shot mandatory for the pilgrims visiting Hajj.

Saudi Arabia: No COVID-19 vaccine, no Mecca tells government

The health ministry of Saudi Arabia has said on Tuesday that the country will only allow people who have been vaccinated against Covid-19 to attend the Hajj pilgrimage&nbsp;this year.

Saudi Health Minister Tawfiq al-Rabiah said "compulsory vaccination" would be required for all pilgrims planning to attend the five-day event in July.

Rabiah did not confirm the number of pilgrims that the Kingdom will receive this year, and whether the number will be limited internally, such as 2020, or will it witness wider participation.

&nbsp;“You must prepare early to secure the manpower required to operate the health facilities in Makkah, the holy sites and Madinah and the entry points for pilgrims for the 2021 Hajj season,” he said in an official circular.

“A vaccination committee must be formed for the Hajj and Umrah season, on which they have adopted the compulsory reception of the COVID-19 vaccine for participating healthcare workers,” he added.

Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam. Muslims who are physically and financially able are expected to perform it at least once in their lifetime.&nbsp;

The pilgrimage would typically attract at least 2.5 million people from across the world.

Last year, pilgrims from outside the Kingdom were excluded from performing Hajj&nbsp;due to the coronavirus pandemic.

(With inputs from agencies)

The health ministry of Saudi Arabia has said on Tuesday that the country will only allow people who have been vaccinated against Covid-19 to attend the Hajj pilgrimage this year.

The health ministry of Saudi Arabia has said on Tuesday that the country will only allow people who have been vaccinated against Covid-19 to attend the Hajj pilgrimage this year. Saudi Health Minister Tawfiq al-Rabiah said "compulsory vaccination" would be required for all pilgrims planning to attend the five-day event in July. Rabiah did not confirm the number of pilgrims that the Kingdom will receive this year, and whether the number will be limited internally, such as 2020, or will it witness wider participation. “You must prepare early to secure the manpower required to operate the health facilities in Makkah, the holy sites and Madinah and the entry points for pilgrims for the 2021 Hajj season,” he said in an official circular. “A vaccination committee must be formed for the Hajj and Umrah season, on which they have adopted the compulsory reception of the COVID-19 vaccine for participating healthcare workers,” he added. Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam. Muslims who are physically and financially able are expected to perform it at least once in their lifetime. The pilgrimage would typically attract at least 2.5 million people from across the world. Last year, pilgrims from outside the Kingdom were excluded from performing Hajj due to the coronavirus pandemic. (With inputs from agencies)

Covid-19 vaccination mandatory for Hajj this year, says Saudi Arabia

China on Tuesday announced new rules for Muslims embarking upon the annual Hajj pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia. Stipulating that the pilgrimage should be organised only by the country's Islamic Association, Bejing has ordered Chinese Muslims not to oppose the regulations.

China announces new regulations for Muslims visiting Saudi Arabia for Hajj

Mask-clad Muslims circled Islam's holiest site along socially distanced paths on Sunday, as Saudi authorities partially resumed the year-round umrah pilgrimage amid extensive health precautions after seven-month coronavirus hiatus.

Thousands of worshippers entered the Grand Mosque in the holy city of Mecca in batches to perform the ritual of circling the sacred Kaaba, a cubic structure towards which Muslims around the world pray.

The umrah, the pilgrimage that can be undertaken at any time, usually attracts millions of Muslims from across the globe each year but it was suspended in March due to the coronavirus pandemic.

It will be revived in three phases, with Saudi Hajj Minister Mohammad Benten saying last week that 6,000 pilgrims per day will be allowed in the first stage to perform the umrah "meticulously and within a specified period of time".

A raft of precautions have been adopted to ward off any outbreaks during the umrah, according to state media.

The revered Black Stone in the eastern corner of the Kaaba — which it is customary but not mandatory to touch during the pilgrimage — will be out of reach, while the Grand Mosque will be sterilised before and after each group of worshippers.

Each group of 20 or 25 pilgrims will be accompanied by a health worker and medical teams will be on the ground in case of an emergency, Benten said.

Under the second stage from October 18, the number of umrah pilgrims will be increased to 15,000 per day, with a maximum of 40,000 people, including pilgrims and other worshippers, allowed to perform prayers at the mosque.

Visitors from abroad will be permitted in the third stage from November 1, when capacity will be raised to 20,000 and 60,000, respectively.

The decision to resume the pilgrimage was in response to the "aspirations of Muslims home and abroad" to perform the ritual and visit the holy sites, the interior ministry said last month.

It added that the umrah would be allowed to return to full capacity once the threat of the pandemic has abated.

Until then, the health ministry will vet countries from which pilgrims are allowed to enter based on the health risks.

Saudi Arabia suspended the umrah in March and scaled back the annual hajj over fears that the coronavirus could spread to Islam's holiest cities.

The hajj went ahead in late July, on the smallest scale in modern history, with only up to 10,000 Muslims allowed to take part — a far cry from the 2.5 million who participated last year.

Mask-clad Muslims circled Islam's holiest site along socially distanced paths on Sunday, as Saudi authorities partially resumed the year-round umrah pilgrimage amid extensive health precautions after seven-month coronavirus hiatus.

Mask-clad Muslims circled Islam's holiest site along socially distanced paths on Sunday, as Saudi authorities partially resumed the year-round umrah pilgrimage amid extensive health precautions after seven-month coronavirus hiatus. Thousands of worshippers entered the Grand Mosque in the holy city of Mecca in batches to perform the ritual of circling the sacred Kaaba, a cubic structure towards which Muslims around the world pray. The umrah, the pilgrimage that can be undertaken at any time, usually attracts millions of Muslims from across the globe each year but it was suspended in March due to the coronavirus pandemic. It will be revived in three phases, with Saudi Hajj Minister Mohammad Benten saying last week that 6,000 pilgrims per day will be allowed in the first stage to perform the umrah "meticulously and within a specified period of time". A raft of precautions have been adopted to ward off any outbreaks during the umrah, according to state media. The revered Black Stone in the eastern corner of the Kaaba — which it is customary but not mandatory to touch during the pilgrimage — will be out of reach, while the Grand Mosque will be sterilised before and after each group of worshippers. Each group of 20 or 25 pilgrims will be accompanied by a health worker and medical teams will be on the ground in case of an emergency, Benten said. Under the second stage from October 18, the number of umrah pilgrims will be increased to 15,000 per day, with a maximum of 40,000 people, including pilgrims and other worshippers, allowed to perform prayers at the mosque. Visitors from abroad will be permitted in the third stage from November 1, when capacity will be raised to 20,000 and 60,000, respectively. The decision to resume the pilgrimage was in response to the "aspirations of Muslims home and abroad" to perform the ritual and visit the holy sites, the interior ministry said last month. It added that the umrah would be allowed to return to full capacity once the threat of the pandemic has abated. Until then, the health ministry will vet countries from which pilgrims are allowed to enter based on the health risks. Saudi Arabia suspended the umrah in March and scaled back the annual hajj over fears that the coronavirus could spread to Islam's holiest cities. The hajj went ahead in late July, on the smallest scale in modern history, with only up to 10,000 Muslims allowed to take part — a far cry from the 2.5 million who participated last year.

Mecca reopens for limited 'umrah' pilgrimage

Muslim pilgrims circled Islam's holiest site along socially distanced paths Sunday in the final ritual of the hajj, the smallest in modern history as Saudi authorities sought to prevent a coronavirus outbreak.

Only up to 10,000 Muslims took part in the hajj, a far cry from the 2.5 million who took part in the five-day annual pilgrimage last year.

Masked pilgrims threw pebbles at a wall symbolising Satan in Mina, close to the holy city of Mecca, on the final day of hajj, state media reported.

Instead of gathering the pebbles themselves as in past years, they were handed them bagged and sterilised by hajj authorities, to protect against the novel coronavirus.

Pilgrims returned to the Grand Mosque in Mecca later Sunday to perform a final "tawaf", or circling of the Kaaba -- a cubic structure towards which Muslims around the world pray.&nbsp;

Holding the ritual in the shadow of the pandemic required "double efforts" by Saudi authorities, King Salman said on Friday after being discharged from hospital following surgery to remove his gall bladder.

"The hajj this year was restricted to a very limited number of people from multiple nationalities, ensuring the ritual was completed despite the difficult circumstances," said the kingdom's 84-year-old ruler.

Health authorities said no coronavirus cases were reported at the holy sites during the hajj.

The pilgrims, who were required to observe social distancing and subjected to regular temperature checks, will go into mandatory quarantine after the hajj, authorities said.&nbsp;

The ritual, one of the five pillars of Islam and a must for able-bodied Muslims at least once in their lifetime, is usually one of the world's largest religious gatherings.

But local media said up to 10,000 people already residing in the kingdom were participating this year.

The hajj ministry had initially said around 1,000 pilgrims would be allowed.

The hajj typically costs thousands of dollars for pilgrims, who often save for years as well as endure long waiting lists for a chance to attend.

But this year, the Saudi government is covering the expenses of all pilgrims, providing them with meals, hotel accommodation and health care, worshippers said.

Muslim pilgrims circled Islam's holiest site along socially distanced paths Sunday in the final ritual of the hajj, the smallest in modern history as Saudi authorities sought to prevent a coronavirus outbreak.

Muslim pilgrims circled Islam's holiest site along socially distanced paths Sunday in the final ritual of the hajj, the smallest in modern history as Saudi authorities sought to prevent a coronavirus outbreak. Only up to 10,000 Muslims took part in the hajj, a far cry from the 2.5 million who took part in the five-day annual pilgrimage last year. Masked pilgrims threw pebbles at a wall symbolising Satan in Mina, close to the holy city of Mecca, on the final day of hajj, state media reported. Instead of gathering the pebbles themselves as in past years, they were handed them bagged and sterilised by hajj authorities, to protect against the novel coronavirus. Pilgrims returned to the Grand Mosque in Mecca later Sunday to perform a final "tawaf", or circling of the Kaaba -- a cubic structure towards which Muslims around the world pray. Holding the ritual in the shadow of the pandemic required "double efforts" by Saudi authorities, King Salman said on Friday after being discharged from hospital following surgery to remove his gall bladder. "The hajj this year was restricted to a very limited number of people from multiple nationalities, ensuring the ritual was completed despite the difficult circumstances," said the kingdom's 84-year-old ruler. Health authorities said no coronavirus cases were reported at the holy sites during the hajj. The pilgrims, who were required to observe social distancing and subjected to regular temperature checks, will go into mandatory quarantine after the hajj, authorities said. The ritual, one of the five pillars of Islam and a must for able-bodied Muslims at least once in their lifetime, is usually one of the world's largest religious gatherings. But local media said up to 10,000 people already residing in the kingdom were participating this year. The hajj ministry had initially said around 1,000 pilgrims would be allowed. The hajj typically costs thousands of dollars for pilgrims, who often save for years as well as endure long waiting lists for a chance to attend. But this year, the Saudi government is covering the expenses of all pilgrims, providing them with meals, hotel accommodation and health care, worshippers said.

Saudi Arabia concludes downsized hajj amid coronavirus pandemic

Muslims return to Saudi Arabia for Hajj Pilgrimage amid the pandemic. Muslims gather at a grand mosque for the pilgrimage. Watch this video to know more.

Muslims return to Saudi Arabia for Hajj Pilgrimage amid the pandemic

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