In view of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, Saudi Arabia will allow 60,000 people for the Hajj Pilgrimage this year. A statement was released by the kingdom on Saturday stating the number of people who would be allowed this year, and those attending should be from within the country as well, all this was done due to the ongoing pandemic.

The religious event which draws millions of people from around the world every year was only restricted to 1000 people who were chosen from within the kingdom last year. This year too, the number of pilgrims allowed is limited, and Covid-appropriate behavior would be followed. The Saudi authorities had indicated last month that the ritual would not be normal this year. Fahad Nazer, a spokesman for the Saudi Embassy in Washington, said on Twitter that there would be “preventative & precautionary measures that ensure the health & safety of pilgrims.”

The hajj which is to be completed by all Muslims who are physically and financially able should be done at least once. This year, the Hajj is scheduled to begin mid-July and those between the ages of 18-65 years old, who are completely vaccinated will be allowed to take part.

Saudi Arabia will allow 60,000 people for the Hajj Pilgrimage this year, is a decision that has been taken by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, and will come as a disappointment to many Muslims, as they save up for many years and wait in hopes of getting the Hajj visa which is required for them to take part in this religious event. The demand to be a part of this event is also incredibly high, and not everyone can get a spot in the event. the country limits the number of pilgrims from various countries who can attend every year.

Saudi Arabia has been reporting an average of 1100 cases a day, with its total cases being 16,000 between 31 May to 13 June. In terms of vaccination, they are inoculating 46 out of 100 people per day. Saudi Arabia will soon open for international travel as well.