Hajj 2020: Only A Few Muslims Residing In Saudi Arabia To Partake

The Saudi Arabian Government has said that it would only allow residents within the Kingdom to partake in this year's hajj, a yearly Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca.

The government also said that not every Muslim living in the country would be permitted, either, as only a few residents will get the privilege to partake, announced the state media.

An estimated total of two million Muslims partake in the annual pilgrimage but that number will be cut short due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The Saudi Arabian Government explained that this measure only seeks to allow for proper social distancing during the event, as no risk can be taken.

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In a statement, the government said, “It has been decided that Hajj for this year (1441 H/ 2020 AD) will be held whereby a very limited number of pilgrims from various nationalities who already reside in Saudi Arabia would be able to perform it.

“This decision is taken to ensure Hajj is performed in a safe manner from a public health perspective while observing all preventive 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.”