Saudi Arabia is to begin accepting vaccinated foreign visitors to the holy city of Mecca as part of the Umrah pilgrimage.
The authorities will begin taking travel requests from Monday.
The kingdom closed its borders some 18 months ago because of the coronavirus pandemic. Since 1 August, vaccinated foreign tourists are also allowed in.
Last month, only around 60,000 vaccinated residents were allowed to take part in a scaled-down Hajj.
The Hajj is a pilgrimage to Mecca that Muslims who are able to must perform at least once in their lifetime. It takes place at a set time of year: in 2022, it will run from 7 to 12 July.
The Umrah pilgrimage can be undertaken at any time of the year and attracts millions from around the world. Pilgrims may also visit the holy city of Medina.
Source:Fiilafmonline/BBC
