THE Saudi Supreme Court has declared that Dul Al-Hijjah will begin on Wednesday, July 22, and that Arafat Day (Dul Al-Hijjah) will be Thursday, July 30.
After due confirmation of the moon, the court further declared that Eid Al-Adha will be on Friday, July 31.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah said pilgrims selected to perform the hajj this year started a seven-day quarantine last Sunday.
The measure is part of a series of safeguards taken to ensure the safety of pilgrims during hajj, which is taking place amid the ongoing coronavirus disease pandemic.
Saudi authorities said theyhave taken all measures to ensure the safety and security of pilgrims.
The hajj is reduced in scale this year because of coronavirus and only about 1,000 pilgrims are allowed as against the millions who usually attend.
The kingdom has recorded 258,429 active cases of the infection while no fewer than 2,557 deaths have been recorded as at July 21, 2020.
People from outside the kingdom are not allowed this year. Both Saudi Arabian citizens and residents are among the selected pilgrims.
The hajj guidelines also mandated that pilgrims among the foreign residents are first-timers and aged between 20 and 50.
All those undertaking the ritual in Mount Arafat and Mina must stay in designated areas, stick to the assigned walking route, wear a face mask at all times, maintain physical distancing and only eat the food provided.
Once Hajj is over, the pilgrims will undergo a second quarantine period.
