Coronavirus: Muslims begin downsized haj in Saudi Arabia
- This year, only 60,000 Saudis and foreigners already living in the oil-rich kingdom are taking part in the haj, one of Islam’s five pillars
- Vaccinated pilgrims were transported from the Saudi city of Mecca to the Mina valley where they will spend the night before heading to Mount Arafat
Vaccinated Muslim pilgrims living in Saudi Arabia started their haj pilgrimage on Sunday, an annual event strictly curtailed for the second consecutive year over Covid-19 concerns.
This year, only 60,000 Saudis and foreigners already living in the oil-rich kingdom are taking part in the haj, one of Islam’s five pillars.
The figure pales in comparison to the 2.5 million Muslims from all over the world who usually gather annually for the haj, Islam's largest congregation.
Last month, Saudi authorities said eligible pilgrims must be in the age group ranging from 18 to 65 years and fully vaccinated against Covid-19.
Pilgrims were transported from the Saudi city of Mecca to the Mina valley where they will spend the night before heading to Mount Arafat where the haj reaches its peak on Monday. Tuesday marks the start of the Muslim Eid al-Adha festival.
