RIYADH :Saudi Arabia has announced not to allow international pilgrims and hold Hajj this year with a very limited number of pilgrims already residing in the Kingdom owing to the coronavirus pandemic. 

Saudi Ministry of Hajj said in a statement on Twitter that the decision has been taken to ensure Hajj is performed in a safe manner from a public health perspective while observing all preventative measures and the necessary social distancing protocols.

The statement said as the COVID-19 has spread to over 180 countries, it is important to consider the risks of the disease spreading in crowded gatherings where it is difficult to maintain safe social distancing.

Meanwhile, Secretary General of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), Dr. Youssef bin Ahmed Al-Othaimeen, welcoming the Saudi Arabia decision to hold a Hajj this year with a very limited numbers as based on Islamic Jurisprudence.

In a statement, the OIC secretary General affirmed his support for the decision which comes in line with all precautionary and preventive measures taken by the Saudi Arabia against COVID-19.