It is reported that Saudi Arabia is considering canceling the pilgrimage to Mecca this year due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Cancellation indicates that for the first time in modern history, Muslims did not travel to the holiest Islamic cities during the five to six day pilgrimage held at the end of July.
About two million Muslims travel each year.
“The subject has been carefully studied and different scenarios are being considered. The official decision will be made within a week, ”he said. He told the Financial Times.
Health concerns have resulted in the cancellation or delay of major events around the world, including the Olympic Games in Tokyo and possibly the Super Bowl.
The Saudi government acted quickly to lock up after the first case in the country was approved on March 2, but lawsuits have recently increased with alleviating decisions to stay home.
According to Johns Hopkins data, more than 3,000 cases per day have been reported in the past six days, at least 893 of the viruses have died.
The Financial Times reported that officials are considering allowing pilgrimage to a small number of local people under strict public health measures.
“All options are on the table, but priority is for the health and safety of pilgrims,” said the official.
