![A few worshippers performing al-Fajr prayer at the Kaaba, Islam's holiest shrine, at the Grand Mosque complex in Saudi Arabia's holy city of Mecca [STR/AFP via Getty Images]](https://i0.wp.com/www.middleeastmonitor.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/GettyImages-1221998367.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1)
The annual Hajj pilgrimage performed by Muslims from around the world has begun in Saudi Arabia’s holy city of Makkah, dramatically downsized due to the coronavirus pandemic.
In a bid to curb the spread of the deadly virus, only 1,000 pilgrims residing in the kingdom were given permission to take part, compared to roughly two million who usually flock to Makkah for the five-day ritual.
In an unprecedented move, international visitors have been banned from taking part.
The local pilgrims are required to wear masks and observe social distancing measures.
READ: Saudi Arabia considers asset sale and income tax to boost economy