Saudi minister says number of pilgrims limited to around 1,000

Muslim pilgrims pray around the holy Kaaba at the Grand Mosque in Mecca.

Saudi Arabia's haj minister said on Tuesday that the number of pilgrims attending haj this year would be limited to around 1,000 local citizens and residents, to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus. Pilgrims coming from overseas will be barred this year and the ministry will apply a strict health criteria to choose pilgrims who may attend, including excluding those above 65 years old, Mohammed Benten said at a news conference.