DUBAI— Saudi Arabia announced Saturday this year’s hajj pilgrimage will be only for those residing in the kingdom, and no more than 60,000 people will be allowed to perform the Haj, due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
The state-run Saudi Press Agency quoted the kingdom’s Hajj and Umrah Ministry saying that the number of the faithful to take part in this year’s hajj, which will begin in mid-July, will be limited to those ages 18 to 65.
Those taking part must be vaccinated as well, the ministry added.
“The kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which is honored to host pilgrims every year, confirms that this arrangement comes out of its constant concern for the health, safety and security of pilgrims as well as the safety of their countries,” the statement said.
Since the start of the pandemic, the kingdom has reported over 462,000 cases of the virus with 7,500 deaths. It has administered some 15.4 million doses of coronavirus vaccines, according to the World Health Organization.
