Saudi Arabia Limits Hajj Pilgrimage, European Muslims Likely Excluded

The Saudi authorities have decided to maintain the hajj despite the coronavirus epidemic, reports Al Madenah News. But under certain conditions. According to the same source, hajj visas will be distributed to a limited number. In other words, Saudi Arabia will not host the same number of pilgrims as in previous years.

"Arab and Islamic countries" will be prioritized in the allocation of visas, it is specified. European countries including France could be de facto excluded from the 2020 hajj.

Another condition: no participation of people over 60 and people suffering from certain chronic diseases in the 2020 hajj. Contrary to tradition, pilgrims will not be able to visit the cities of Mecca and Medina.

The 2020 Hajj could take place between July 28 and August 2, 2020, the same source said.