Saudi Arabia announced only residents and citizens of the kingdom will be permitted to perform Hajj this year.
The kingdom’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah said the number of pilgrims allowed will be limited to 60,000 people.
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The decision was taken in view of the global situation and the emergence of new variants of COVID-19, Saudi Press Agency reported.
“The Ministry of Haj noted that the government of Saudi Arabia always prioritizes the safety, health, and security of pilgrims,” it said.
The ministry also announced that people between the ages of 18 and 65 who have been vaccinated against COVID-19 will be permitted to join the annual pilgrimage.
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Hajj pilgrims should be fully vaccinated or at least received one dose of a Covid-19 vaccine at least 14 days prior and are free of chronic diseases to be allowed to perform Hajj this year.
This is the second year that the annual pilgrimage was restricted to Muslims inside the Kingdom. (RA)
