Saudi Arabia ends Covid restrictions for Makkah pilgrims – in pictures

Muslim pilgrims walk around the Kaaba during the minor pilgrimage, known as Umrah, in Makkah after Saudi Arabia eased most Covid-19 restrictions. All photos: AP
Muslim pilgrims walk around the Kaaba during the minor pilgrimage, known as Umrah, in Makkah after Saudi Arabia eased most Covid-19 restrictions. All photos: AP
The kingdom has issued more than 29.4 million permits to the Grand Mosque in Makkah over the past seven months.
The kingdom has issued more than 29.4 million permits to the Grand Mosque in Makkah over the past seven months.
More pilgrims plan to attend Umrah, with demand expected to surge beyond pre-pandemic levels.
More pilgrims plan to attend Umrah, with demand expected to surge beyond pre-pandemic levels.
Social-distancing rules at the Grand Mosque of Makkah, the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah and other mosques have been suspended.
Social-distancing rules at the Grand Mosque of Makkah, the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah and other mosques have been suspended.
Workers remove social-distancing signs at the Grand Mosque of Makkah.
Workers remove social-distancing signs at the Grand Mosque of Makkah.