In Pictures: Scaled back Haj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia

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.

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

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

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.

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

Muslim pilgrims perform Tawaf around Kaaba during the annual Haj pilgrimage.

Muslim pilgrims offer prayers at the Grand mosque.

Muslim pilgrims keeping social distance arrive at the Grand mosque.

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

Muslim pilgrims wearing face masks and keeping social distance perform Tawaf around Kaaba.

Muslim pilgrims wearing face masks and keeping social distance perform Tawaf around Kaaba.

Muslim pilgrims wearing face masks and keeping social distance perform Tawaf around Kaaba.