Hajj During COVID-19
By Tania Valdés
The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have been devastating to the pilgrims of the Hajj. Due to the importance of this religious happening, Saudi Arabian authorities implemented a series of restrictions. These restrictions consisted of: pilgrims wearing white garments and masks, carrying personal prayer rugs, and shading themselves with umbrellas. Authorities are also issued personal prayer rugs and bottled water from the holy Zamzam well instead of letting pilgrims drink from cups at the mosque. In addition, attendees are required to self-isolate before and after the pilgrimage and to maintain social distancing while performing it, and the black stone is off limits to kissing and touching. These restrictions have also caused a severe impact to Saudi Arabia GDP due to the dramatically reduced number of pilgrims compared to all years previously.