JEDDAH (HRNW) – Saudi Arabia could drastically limit numbers at the annual hajj pilgrimage to prevent a further outbreak of coronavirus after cases in the country topped 100,000, sources familiar with the matter said to Reuters on Monday.
Some 2.5 million pilgrims visit the holiest sites of Islam in Mecca and Medina for the week-long hajj, a once-in-a-lifetime duty for every able-bodied Muslim who can afford it. Official data show hajj and the lesser, year-round umrah pilgrimage earn the kingdom about $12 billion a year.
Saudi Arabia asked Muslims in March to put hajj plans on hold and suspended umrah until further notice.
Two sources familiar with the matter said authorities are now considering allowing “only symbolic numbers” this year, with restrictions including a ban on older pilgrims and additional health checks.
With strict procedures, authorities think it may be possible to allow in up to 20% of each country’s regular quota of pilgrims, another source familiar with the matter told Reuters.
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