The Economic Impact of Saudi Ban on International Pilgrims

The Economic Impact of Saudi Ban on International Pilgrims

The Economic Impact of Saudi Ban on International Pilgrims

Published June 25th, 2020 - 09:30 GMT











Highlights





Any loss of revenue from Hajj and Umrah, estimated at $12 billion annually, will put further strain on the Kingdom.







Saudi Arabia has prohibited international visitors from making Hajj this year in an effort to contain the spread of Covid-19.

Only a limited number of people already residing in the Kingdom will be allowed to attend the pilgrimage, according to an announcement issued on Monday by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.

Around two million people were expected to visit Mecca and Medina this summer for the annual gathering, which is scheduled to take place from July 28 to August 2.

Saudi authorities believe that the decision will help them make plans for social distancing that will keep people safe.

Saudi Arabia has recorded over 160,000 cases of infection and 1,300 deaths. It lifted a nationwide lockdown on June 21.

Earlier this month, Indonesia was one of the first countries to withdraw from the pilgrimage. Senegal, Malaysia and Singapore followed suit with similar announcements.

Any loss of revenue from the pilgrimage sector will put further economic strain on the Kingdom, which