Cairo: Saudi Minister of Islamic Affairs Abdulatif Al Sheikh has directed mosque preachers to highlight the importance of vaccination against COVID-19 as the most effective method to return to normal life in their sermons for this week's Eid Al Fitr, according to a media report.
In a circular to the preachers, the minister has also directed them to exhort worshippers to limit traditional Eid visits and avoid gatherings on the occasions and instead to make do with phone and online congratulations to protect themselves from the pandemic, Okaz newspaper reported.
The worshippers will, moreover, be advised to shun handshakes and to wear face masks as part of precautions against COVID-19.
Saudi Arabia initiated mass vaccinations against COVID-10 on December 17.
Nearly 11 million doses have since been administered at 587 centres across the kingdom, according to the latest estimate.
Authorities have offered the vaccination to citizens and foreign residents for free.
The kingdom has expanded inoculation centres and services nationwide including giving the jabs to home-bound patients.
Authorities have also launched “Take the Step, Take the Vaccine”, a national awareness campaigning highlighting the importance of registering to get vaccinated.