The annual Hajj is set to take place the sacred city Mecca, Saudi Arabia. The pilgrimage is one the most important events the Muslim calendar. It lasts approximately 5 to 6 days and is a mandatory religious duty Muslims. Hajj must be carried at least once the lifetime of all adult Muslims. However, they must be physically and financially capable undertaking the journey and must be able to support their family during their absence. This year's Hajj has been greatly scaled down because precautionary measures coronavirus have been put in place. The pandemic has meant the postponement of numerous events, causing considerable disappointment pilgrims.
The Saudi Ministry Hajj and Umrah announced last month that it was severely limiting the number pilgrims allowed to enter the holy site this year. Officials said the measures were to avoid any further outbreaks COVID-19 and contain the risks infection. Many Muslim-majority countries the world have cancelled pilgrimages to Mecca. The result is that Mecca will see only a tiny fraction the two million pilgrims it usually receives during Hajj. This year, places will be restricted to a few thousand Saudi Arabian citizens. Twenty-two-time pilgrim Wafa Shaheen said: "I was not upset the Hajj news this year as I know there are plenty ways to take advantage this precious spiritual time."
