In these few lines, we're going to talk about a subject that has been much talked about in recent months, and which unfortunately is still making the headlines. As you will have gathered by now, we are talking about Covid-19. This unprecedented health crisis is a global pandemic which spares no one, and no country. Not even the holy cities of Medina and Mecca. So for us, this is a reminder from Allah above all, and as Muslims, we must meditate on this.
This health crisis has had a huge impact on the Hajj and Umrah business. We'll explain!
A hajj and an Umrah like no other...
You will no doubt have seen the images of recent months, particularly during Ramadan. La Umrah performed during this month is the one that attracts the most pilgrims. And with good reason: the rewards are enormous! This year, because of the health crisis, the images filmed in Mecca were edifying! Mecca was completely empty - never seen before!
Most countries were confined. This was also the case for Saudi Arabia, which was the worst affected country on the Arabian Peninsula.
The health crisis: Unavoidable cancellations
Last March, Saudi Arabia took the decision to to cancel the Umrah completely in order to protect the country, which has already been hard hit by the virus.
If you were due to make your Umrah this year, you must have experienced the same disappointment as the other thousands of Muslims who have already prepared for this year's Umrah. an unforgettable religious journey.
What about the 2020 Hajj?
This year, the Great Pilgrimage will take place in a very special context. Against all the odds, Saudi Arabia has decided to maintain the Hajj but in special conditions:
- A limit of only 10,000 pilgrims (compared with almost 2,489,406 pilgrims in 2019)
- An authorisation mandatory to present in order to gain access to Mecca
- Compulsory barrier measures
- Strict hygiene measures
- Enhanced safety
- A fine for those who wish to venture into the precincts of Mecca without authorisation
A health crisis that affects us all
This health crisis has had devastating consequences. Firstly, in human terms, with thousands of deaths around the world. Then in economic terms, with thousands of people out of work, businesses closed...
And inevitably, this had an impact on Muslims who had organised their Hajj and Umrah. But also for agencies specialising in travel to Mecca. They found themselves out of work, waiting for every decision taken by Saudi Arabia concerning the Hajj and Umrah.
You should know that the situation is difficult for everyone, but that these prohibitions and limitations must be taken in the general interest. And we hope that the situation will soon be resolved, so that, with Allah's help, you can meet again for organise your Hajj and Umrah 2021.
In the meantime, take care of yourself, your family and your faith.
Wassalam
THE HARAMAIN VOYAGES TEAM
