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.
Reuters
2/12
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
Reuters
3/12
Saudi Arabia started prohibiting people without permits from entering the holy places in Mecca, Muzdalifah, Arafat and Mina under a strict security plan.
Reuters
4/12
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.
Reuters
5/12
Muslim pilgrims wearing face masks are seen following and walking on social distance lines set up by authorities as they perform Tawaf around Kaaba
Reuters
6/12
Muslim pilgrims perform Tawaf around Kaaba during the annual Haj pilgrimage.
Reuters
7/12
Muslim pilgrims offer prayers at the Grand mosque.
Reuters
8/12
Muslim pilgrims keeping social distance arrive at the Grand mosque.
Reuters
9/12
Pilgrims are required to wear masks and observe social distancing during a series of religious rites.
Reuters
10/12
Muslim pilgrims wearing face masks and keeping social distance perform Tawaf around Kaaba.
Reuters
11/12
Muslim pilgrims wearing face masks and keeping social distance perform Tawaf around Kaaba.
Reuters
12/12
Muslim pilgrims wearing face masks and keeping social distance perform Tawaf around Kaaba.