Saudi Arabia has announced not to allow international pilgrims and hold Hajj this year with a very limited number of pilgrims already residing in the Kingdom owing to the coronavirus pandemic.

Saudi Ministry of Hajj said in a statement on Twitter that the decision has been taken to ensure Hajj is performed in a safe manner from a public health perspective while observing all preventative measures and the necessary social distancing protocols.
The statement said as the COVID-19 has spread to over 180 countries, it is important to consider the risks of the disease spreading in crowded gatherings where it is difficult to maintain safe social distancing.