Saudi Arabia disallows international pilgrims for Hajj this year

Saudi Arabia disallows international pilgrims for Hajj this year due to pandemic.

Ministry of Hajj of Saudi Arabia has announced hold Hajj this year with a very limited number of pilgrims already residing in the Kingdom owing to the coronavirus pandemic.

Saudi Arabia disallows international pilgrims

In a statement on Twitter, it announced no permission for Hajj to international pilgrims.

The Saudi ministry said they took the decision 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 COVID-19 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.

Meanwhile, Secretary General of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), Dr. Youssef bin Ahmed Al-Othaimeen, welcoming the Saudi Arabia decision to hold a Hajj this year with a very limited numbers as based on Islamic Jurisprudence.

In a statement, the OIC secretary General affirmed his support for the decision which comes in line with all precautionary and preventive measures taken by the Saudi Arabia against COVID-19.

Muslims in their respective countries also face restrictions in the name of lockdown and smart lockdown.

However, they don’t agree with these restrictions on religious obligations and rites.

GTV