Islamic Ministry has announced that Saudi Arabia has officially informed its decision to only allow those residing in Saudi Arabia to take part in this year's Hajj pilgrimage.
Performing Hajj is the fifth pillar of Islam which must be fulfilled by all able Muslims. Muslims all over the world travel to Saudi Arabia to visit the Holy Ka'bah in Mecca.
A statement issued by Islamic Ministry said Saudi Arabia has informed this year’s Hajj Pilgrimage will be accommodated for only a limited number of people residing in Saudi Arabia including the country’s citizens and foreign citizens, as a precautionary measure against COVID-19. Social distancing will be observed during the Hajj Pilgrimage for the Islamic year 1441 AH. The Ministry further said the government of the Maldives had been making all the necessary arrangement to facilitate those who wished to travel for Hajj up to the point that the kingdom announced its decision.
161,005 people have tested positive for COVID-19 in Saudi Arabia out of which 1,307 persons have died due to the illness.
