Digital wristbands for foreign pilgrims

They are also required to spend 3 days in quarantine in their hotels

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Haj and Umrah has announced new protocols for foreign pilgrims coming in to perform Umrah.

The faithful must check their inoculation status according to the type of approved vaccine at a care centre in Makkah at least six hours before performing Umrah. The pilgrims will be given a bracelet to wear and all their relevant permits will be verified.

Foreign pilgrims are also required to spend three days in quarantine in their respective hotels in Makkah after their arrival in the Kingdom.

The ministry stressed that pilgrims must strictly adhere to the date and time slot allocated for them. Saudi Arabia began receiving pilgrims in March in accordance with the requirements set by the Ministry of Health to prevent the spread of Covid.

1.2 million Quran copies to be distributed

Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Call and Guidance has begun shipping 1.2 million copies of the Quran in various sizes and 21 languages to 29 countries around the world as part of Saudi King’s gifts programme.

The distribution will be done in coordination with Saudi embassies and the Islamic and cultural centres affiliated to Saudi Arabia in those countries.

Minister of Islamic Affairs, Call and Guidance and Dr Abdul Latif Al Shaikh thanked King Salman for this generous gesture that embodies his care for Muslims and his keenness on distributing copies of the Quran.