This year’s Hajj, 1441H, will go down as one of those rare occasions in history when the pilgrimage had probably the fewest pilgrims in attendance comprising almost entirely of local residents.
Due to the novel coronavirus pandemic, Hajj has been restricted to a selected 1000 people, although some press reports have said up to 10,000 will be able to attend. We will have to wait to see the actual number. Normally, the once-in-a-lifetime pilgrimage sees over 2.5 million people from around the world.
Those taking part will be tested for COVID19 before their arrival in Makkah and will be required to self-quarantine after Hajj.
The Day of Arafah, 9 Dhul Hijjah, falls on Thursday and the Day of al-Nahr i.e. the Eid al-Adha will be on Friday In sha Allah.
Dr. Bilal Philips