JEDDAH — Maj. Gen. Mohammed Bin Wasl Al-Ahmadi, assistant commander of the Hajj security forces for the Grand Mosque and its premises, said on Tuesday that the Grand Mosque will remain closed to worshippers on Arafat day and Eid Al-Adha as a part of the precautionary measures to forestall the spread of coronavirus pandemic.
“The suspension of prayers within the Grand Mosque and its outer premises will continue. We invite people of Makkah to interrupt their fast on the day of Arafat in their homes,” he added.
Maj. Gen. Al-Ahmadi made the remarks during a press briefing during which he announced the completion of the primary stage of coming up with the annual religious gathering. He said that the protection plan for this year’s Hajj focuses on organizational, security, humanitarian and health aspects.
“We have mainly focused on the health aspect this year proper to the exceptional situation. The remaining stages are going to be implemented within the coming days,” said Maj. Gen. Al-Ahmadi.
He said that a replacement mechanism has been put in point to regulate pilgrims’ entry and exit to the Grand Mosque so as to make sure social distancing.
As a part of the precautionary measures, pathways for circumambulation of the Holy Kaaba and Saye (walking rituals) between the hills of Safa and Marwah are defined, and people having official permission are going to be allowed to enter the Grand Mosque area, Maj. Gen. Al-Ahmadi added.
