In Pictures: Scaled back Haj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia is holding this year’s Haj with a very limited number due to COVID-19

Published: July 31, 2020 12:16 Compiled by Christian Borbon, Senior Web Editor

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Pilgrims will be required to wear masks and observe social distancing during a series of religious rites that are completed over five days in the holy city of Mecca and its surroundings in western Saudi Arabia. | A Muslim pilgrim wearing a face mask casts stones at pillars symbolizing Satan during the annual Haj pilgrimage amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Image Credit: Reuters

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Saudi authorities enforces stringent measures during this year’s Haj. | Saudi Haj Security Force personnel are seen standing as muslim pilgrims head to cast stones at pillars symbolizing Satan during the annual Haj pilgrimage Image Credit: Reuters

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Saudi Arabia started prohibiting people without permits from entering the holy places in Mecca, Muzdalifah, Arafat and Mina under a strict security plan. Image Credit: Reuters

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More than 2 million Muslims usually perform the Haj every year which is one of Islam’s five pillars. Muslims are expected to perform it at least once in their lives - if they can afford it and are physically able. Image Credit: Reuters

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Muslim pilgrims wearing face masks are seen following and walking on social distance lines set up by authorities as they perform Tawaf around Kaaba Image Credit: Reuters

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Muslim pilgrims perform Tawaf around Kaaba during the annual Haj pilgrimage. Image Credit: Reuters

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Muslim pilgrims offer prayers at the Grand mosque. Image Credit: Reuters

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Muslim pilgrims keeping social distance arrive at the Grand mosque. Image Credit: Reuters

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Pilgrims are required to wear masks and observe social distancing during a series of religious rites. Image Credit: Reuters

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Muslim pilgrims wearing face masks and keeping social distance perform Tawaf around Kaaba. Image Credit: Reuters

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Muslim pilgrims wearing face masks and keeping social distance perform Tawaf around Kaaba. Image Credit: Reuters

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Muslim pilgrims wearing face masks and keeping social distance perform Tawaf around Kaaba. Image Credit: Reuters

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