Saudi Arabia To Host Limited Hajj Pilgrimage Due To COVID-19

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Saudi Arabia announced a limited Hajj for residents of various nationalities within the country. The Hajj, a significant Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, usually attracts around 2 million people annually, generating $12 billion for Saudi Arabia. Earlier, the government suspended religious visas and banned residents from traveling to Mecca. The number of participants for this year's Hajj, scheduled from July 28th to August 2nd, remains uncertain.

What is the economic impact of the Hajj pilgrimage on Saudi Arabia?

When does this year's Hajj take place?