Saudi Minister: Some 1,000 pilgrims will perform this year’s hajj

Published 23 Jun,2020 via Asharq Alawsat (English Edition) - Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dr. Mohammad Saleh bin Taher Benten said on Tuesday that around 1,000 pilgrims will perform this year’s Hajj.

Speaking during a press conference with Minister of Health Dr. Tawfiq al-Rabiah, he reiterated the authorities’ decision to hold this year’s annual rituals with “very limited” numbers due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

The Hajj will also be limited to people residing inside the Kingdom.

Benten stressed that the rituals will be held according to the necessary preventive and social distancing measures against the coronavirus.

“We have prepared extraordinary executive plans for the Hajj,” he stated.

Rabiah underscored the strict measures, saying they stem from the authorities’ keenness on the safety of the pilgrims.

All pilgrims will be tested for COVID-19 before being allowed to perform the Hajj, he announced. They will also have to remain in quarantine for 14 days after the conclusion of the pilgrimage.

Pilgrims under the age of 65 and who do not suffer from chronic diseases will be allowed to perform the Hajj, he revealed.

“The Hajj will be safe, secure and healthy,” he remarked.

All workers involved in ensuring the success of the pilgrimage will also be tested for the virus.

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