Saudi Arabia to hold very limited Hajj due to coronavirus this year

RIYADH (92 News) - Saudi Arabia has announced not to allow international pilgrims and hold Hajj this year with a very limited number of pilgrims already residing in the Kingdom owing to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. In a statement on Twitter, Saudi Ministry of Hajj said that the decision has been 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. The statement said as the coronavirus has spread to over 180 countries, it is important to consider the risks of the disease spreading in crowded gatherings where it is difficult to maintain safe social distancing.