Saudi Arabia suspends entry for pilgrims and tourists over coronavirus fears

Saudi Arabia has temporarily suspended entry for pilgrims and tourists due to fears of the novel coronavirus outbreak.

The suspension includes Umrah, the Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, and also sparked uncertainty over the annual Hajj pilgrimage.

Visas for tourists visiting from countries where the virus poses a danger, specifically China, Italy, Japan, South Korea, and Kazakhstan, are also suspended.

On Friday, Saudi Arabia also barred citizens from the six-nation Gulf Cooperation Council from entering Mecca and Medina.

Saudi Arabia has so far reported no coronavirus cases but has implemented extensive cleaning and sterilization measures in holy sites.

Despite the risks, many pilgrims expressed confidence in divine protection and continued to worship, with some taking additional precautions like wearing masks.

The suspension of umrah visas has led to significant losses for travel agents and hotel bookings.