Saudi Arabia Advises Muslims to Suspend Hajj Plans Amid Coronavirus Uncertainty

The Haj Minister of Saudi Arabia Mohammad Benten has advised Muslims around the world to temporarily suspend Hajj plans amid the uncertainty of Coronavirus pandemic. Asserting the Saudia is fully capable of hosting pilgrims, the minister has urged for caution.

“Saudi Arabia is fully ready to serve pilgrims,” said Beten while talking to state media.

“But under the current circumstances, as we are talking about the global pandemic […] the kingdom is keen to protect the health of Muslims and citizens and so we have asked our brother Muslims in all countries to wait before doing Haj contracts until the situation is clear,” added the Minister.

Saudi Arabia last year hosted 2.5 million pilgrims for Hajj but this year as the Coronavirus pandemic has taken over the world with over 1600 cases in the kingdom, the Saudi government is yet to make a final decision on Hajj plans.