Quran sessions in Grand Mosque back after 2 years

Only fully vaccinated people to participate in daily session initially limited to 8 learners

Quran memorisation session are allowed again in the Makkah Grand Mosque starting today after a suspension of nearly two years as part of measures to limit the spread of Covid-19.

An official at the General Presidency for Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques said the sessions will be held in person daily from 4pm to 8pm.

Head of the sessions Badr Al Mohammadi explained that the phased plan is based on regulations initially limiting attendees to eight and holding a single daily session.

Only fully vaccinated people will be allowed to participate in the sessions, Saudi television Al Ekhbariya reported.

Last month, Saudi authorities reintroduced in-person religious lectures in the Grand Mosque. In recent weeks, Saudi Arabia has relaxed antivirus restrictions in the Grand Mosque amid brisk mass vaccinations in the kingdom where over 37 million doses of vaccines have been administered since last December.

Earlier in August, the Saudi Ministry of Haj and Umrah announced allowing domestic worshippers aged 12 to 18 years along with older pilgrims to perform the Umrah provided they are fully vaccinated.