Saudi Arabia has announced health protocols to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus in the 2020 Haj season, banning gatherings and meetings between pilgrims, Reuters reported.

Touching the holy Kaaba will be banned during Haj this year, and a social distancing space of a metre and a half between each pilgrim during the rituals including mass prayers and while in the Kaaba circling area will be imposed, a statement by the Center for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC) elaborated.

Also, access to holy Haj sites at Mona, Muzdalifah and Arafat will be limited to those with Haj permits and wearing masks all the time will be mandatory for both pilgrims and organisers.