Mask-clad Muslims circled Islam’s holiest site along socially distanced paths, as Saudi authorities partially resumed the year-round Umrah pilgrimage.
The first batch of Umrah pilgrims arrived in the wee hours of Sunday, following coronavirus protocols, said the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah on Twitter.
The ministry also shared glimpses of the visitors entering the Grand Mosque in Mecca. However, he did not share any further details.
Saudis and foreign residents of the kingdom, Only 30% capacity or 6,000 people per day as of Sunday will be allowed to perform Umrah or the minor pilgrimage.
Barricade placed around the Kaaba and the holy Black Stone will remain in its place and visitors will be prevented from touching them as part of the COVID-19 measures, the official SPA news agency reported.
Masjid al-Haram, where the Kaaba is located, will be disinfected 10 times a day, SPA said, adding that quarantine rooms were already prepared for visitors showing symptoms of COVID-19.
Last week, Saudi Arabia announced that it will gradually lift a coronavirus-related travel ban for the Umrah pilgrimage.
Benten said pilgrims will be divided into groups to ensure social distancing within the Grand Mosque in Mecca.
On October 18, the number of pilgrims will be increased to 15,000 per day, with a maximum of 40,000 people allowed to perform prayers at the mosque.