<<Print>>

Saudi Arabia has halted trips to the holy sites of Mecca and Medina over coronavirus outbreak fears.

Riyadh issued the ban in an effort to halt the spread of the virus, suspending visits to the holy cities in response to Covid-19 concerns. 

The Kingdom's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it was taking precautions in line with World Health Organisation efforts to stop the surge of the novel coronavirus.

Pilgrims make 'umrah' Islamic pilgrimages to the holy sites throughout the year.

The Haji, is an annual mandatory pilgrimage to Mecca Muslims must take at least once in their lifetime according to the faith.