Breaking saudi arabia suspends visas for pilgrims over coronavirus
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Breaking: Saudi Arabia Suspends Visas for Pilgrims Over Coronavirus
In a sudden move, Saudi Arabia has suspended the issuance of visas for pilgrims planning to visit the holy cities of Mecca and Medina due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
The decision was announced by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, which is responsible for overseeing the pilgrimage to Islam's holiest sites. The suspension is effective immediately and will remain in place until further notice.
The move is aimed at preventing the spread of the coronavirus, which has already affected many countries around the world. Saudi Arabia has reported a significant number of cases and deaths from the virus, and the government is taking measures to protect its citizens and visitors.
The suspension of visas for pilgrims is a significant blow to the country's tourism industry, which relies heavily on the millions of Muslims who visit Mecca and Medina every year. The pilgrimage, known as the Hajj, is one of the five pillars of Islam and is a mandatory duty for all able-bodied Muslims who can afford it.
The Saudi government has also taken other measures to combat the spread of the virus, including restricting travel to and from the country, closing public places, and imposing curfews in some areas.
The suspension of visas for pilgrims is likely to have a significant impact on the global Muslim community, which relies on the pilgrimage to Mecca and Medina as a way to fulfill their religious duties.