How Saudi Arabia conducted Hajj amid the COVID-19 pandemic

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Updated 23 September 2020
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How Saudi Arabia conducted Hajj amid the COVID-19 pandemic

  • How Saudi Arabia conducted an extraordinary pilgrimage in the year of the coronavirus pandemic

Of all the extraordinary images beamed around the world from this year’s unprecedented Hajj, it was the time-lapse footage of pilgrims circumambulating the Kaaba with carefully choreographed, socially distanced precision that best captured the spirit of Saudi Arabia’s determination to tackle the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic effectively, efficiently and on its own terms.

With responsibility for the health of the millions of pilgrims who visit each year, and by extension for the wellbeing of the nations from which they come, it was clear from the start of the pandemic that Saudi Arabia was not going to take any chances with its management of the fifth pillar of Islam.

On Feb. 27, before a single case of COVID-19 had been detected in the Kingdom, Saudi Arabia announced it was suspending overseas visitors’ visas for Umrah, the lesser pilgrimage, and closing the holy sites to foreigners.

On March 17, Saudi Arabia took the unprecedented but necessary step of temporarily closing all places of worship but for the Two Holy Mosques in Makkah and Madinah. Three days later, these too were shut.

Meanwhile, Muslims around the world waited anxiously to see how the Kingdom would manage Hajj in this most extraordinary of years. It seemed impossible that Hajj would not go ahead in some form, but much was at stake.

In 2019, 2.5 million pilgrims converged on Makkah for Hajj, among them 1.85 million from overseas, and the prospect of potentially sending large numbers home with the virus to dozens of countries around the world was unthinkable.

In the end, Saudi Arabia settled on a historic compromise.

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On June 23, the government announced that Hajj would go ahead, but with only a “very limited” symbolic number of pilgrims allowed to take part, a decision taken in consultation with a number of other countries whose governments had decided to cancel their Hajj missions in light of the pandemic.

In a statement, Dr. Mohammed Saleh Benten, minister of Hajj and Umrah, said the decision had been taken to limit numbers to just 1,000 pilgrims, chosen from among people who were already resident in the Kingdom, aged under 65 and free of serious health problems.

Qualified medical personnel would accompany small groups of pilgrims, each one of whom would be tested for COVID-19 before arriving at the holy sites, would wear an electronic tracking bracelet while performing Hajj and be subject to self-isolation afterwards.

Face masks would be mandatory, only pre-bottled Zamzam water could be drunk and even the pebbles used for the symbolic stoning of the devil, normally collected from the ground at Muzdalifah by the pilgrims themselves, would be gathered for them beforehand, sterilized and issued in bags.

Throughout Hajj, 51 clinics, five hospitals and a mobile medical unit were ready to treat pilgrims, with no fewer than 200 ambulances and thousands of healthcare professionals on standby.

The Grand Mosque itself has been cleaned 10 times a day during the pandemic crisis.

On the eve of Hajj, at the 45th Grand Hajj Symposium on July 28, Benten said the Kingdom was “keen to ensure that the fifth pillar of Islam is performed in a secure, healthy and safe manner, along with the great care of those who will be able to attend and perform Hajj.”

Sheikh Abdulrahman Al-Sudais, the head of the Presidency of the Two Holy Mosques, stressed the importance of “abiding by the preventive instructions and measures adopted by the government, which include … paying attention to medicine and mental health, warning against myths and working to implement the Prophet’s hadith.”

For Islamic Affairs Minister Sheikh Abdullatif Al-Asheikh, the wisdom of the Islamic Shariah attached “great importance to the safety of worshippers and seeks to protect them from any harm while praying and performing their religious duties.”

Saudi Arabia’s long experience of imposing strict protective measures to guard pilgrims against the possibility of contagious diseases helped to ensure that 2020 passed off without a hitch. In 2019, for example, when 2.5 million pilgrims performed Hajj, there were no public health issues.

In the end, not a single case of COVID-19 emerged during Hajj, a public health victory for the state that belonged also to the pilgrims, whose behavior and adherence to the new rules was exemplary.


‘Color Your Summer’ program reflects Saudi diversity, targets 41m visitors

Updated 15 sec ago
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‘Color Your Summer’ program reflects Saudi diversity, targets 41m visitors

The Saudi Tourism Authority has launched “Color Your Summer,” a program showcasing Saudi Arabia’s natural and cultural diversity, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday. The initiative will run until the end of September.

Activities will be hosted in six main destinations “that blend the sea and mountains and merge adventure with relaxation.”

The STA expects the program to attract more than 41 million visitors from inside and outside the Kingdom this year, with projected tourism spending surpassing SR73 billion ($19.47 billion).

Asir will host its Summer Season, featuring “a rich array of musical, artistic, and cultural events such as Al-Muftaha Village and the Plato Event,” as well as “adventure trails and outdoor activities amid lofty mountains and pleasant weather, while the region’s ancient stone houses evoke a rich cultural memory, adding an authentic touch for visitors.”

The STA, in partnership with Jazeera Airways, recently announced that direct flights from Kuwait to Asir will be available three times a week from July 15 until the end of September, strengthening the airline’s presence in the Saudi market and supporting the authority’s efforts to promote various summer destinations in the Kingdom.

Meanwhile, Riyadh will make its mark this summer by hosting the second Esports World Cup from July 8 to Aug. 24, which is set to attract visitors from around the world. “The city is also a hub for artistic and cultural events and a variety of entertainment shows throughout the summer,” the SPA stated.

Jeddah will be welcoming visitors with new beaches and luxury resorts this summer, and its diverse selection of marine activities and “relaxation events” make it “the right place for family and water sports enthusiasts alike,” the SPA wrote, adding: “Visitors can explore City Walk and circus performances at Circus 1903.”

Sheybarah and Ummahat islands will also be featured as part of the Kingdom’s luxury tourism network. “With their white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and colorful coral reefs, the islands add a maritime adventure to the portfolio of the Kingdom’s destinations,” the SPA stated.

Taif will greet its summer visitors this year with “refreshing mountain breezes and the fragrant blooms of Taif roses in Arruddaf Park, nestled between traditional markets and lush orchards,” according to the SPA. “Meanwhile, Al-Shafa and Al-Hada mountains cast a magical misty aura, providing experiences for adventure and culture enthusiasts steeped in the city’s rich heritage and history.”

And in Baha, visitors will encounter “stunning natural beauty from the heights of the mountains to the depths of the valleys in Raghadan Forest.”


Kingdom arrests 12,066 illegals in one week

Updated 11 min 15 sec ago
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Kingdom arrests 12,066 illegals in one week

RIYADH: Saudi authorities arrested 12,066 people in one week for breaching residency, work and border security regulations, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.

A total of 7,333 people were arrested for violations of residency laws, while 3,060 were held over illegal border crossing attempts, and a further 1,673 for labor-related issues.

The report showed that among the 1,206 people arrested for trying to enter the Kingdom illegally, 65 percent were Ethiopian, 32 percent Yemeni, and 3 percent were of other nationalities.

A further 71 people were caught trying to cross into neighboring countries, and 21 were held for involvement in transporting and harboring violators, the SPA reported.

The Ministry of Interior said that anyone found to be facilitating illegal entry to the Kingdom, including providing transportation and shelter, could face imprisonment for a maximum of 15 years, a fine of up to SR1 million ($260,000), as well as confiscation of vehicles and property.

Suspected violations can be reported on the toll-free number 911 in the Makkah and Riyadh regions, and 999 or 996 in other regions of the Kingdom.


Saudi Arabia supports refugees with 357 aid projects

Updated 24 min 42 sec ago
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Saudi Arabia supports refugees with 357 aid projects

  • Refugee numbers have risen globally
  • Saudi Arabia hosts refugees from Syria, Yemen, and Myanmar

JEDDAH: Saudi Arabia has strengthened its humanitarian role in refugee issues worldwide through KSrelief, which has carried out 3,438 projects in 107 countries, costing more than $7.9 billion.

Among these, 357 projects support refugees, with nearly $497 million spent in Yemen, Somalia, the Syrian Arab Republic, Myanmar, Palestine, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Ukraine, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, focusing on food security, health, shelter, education, and protection.

Refugee numbers have risen globally, with 52 percent originating from Syria (6.5 million), Afghanistan (5.7 million), and Ukraine (5.7 million).

At least 76 percent of displaced people live in low- or middle-income countries, increasing the humanitarian challenge, according to the SPA.

Saudi Arabia hosts refugees from Syria, Yemen, and Myanmar, about 5.5 percent of its population, offering free education, healthcare, and work opportunities under a policy respecting human rights and promoting charity.

These efforts reflect the Kingdom’s humanitarian commitment, highlighted on World Refugee Day on June 20, established by the UN to raise awareness of global displacement.

Saudi Arabia continues to enhance its humanitarian role through partnerships and initiatives focused on human rights and dignity, the SPA reported.


Saudi, Italian officials discuss parliamentary ties

Updated 28 min 25 sec ago
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Saudi, Italian officials discuss parliamentary ties

RIYADH: The speaker of Saudi Arabia’s Shoura Council, Sheikh Abdullah Al-Asheikh, met with Saudi-Italian Parliamentary Friendship Committee Chairman Marco Osnato and other Italian MPs during the second Parliamentary Conference on Interfaith Dialogue in Rome, Italy, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.

Osnato welcomed Al-Asheikh and highlighted the strong cooperation and excellent relations between Saudi Arabia and Italy at various levels, as well as praising the Kingdom’s “constructive role in promoting international peace and stability while avoiding conflicts,” the SPA reported.

The Shoura Council speaker “hailed the fraternal ties and emphasized the importance of strengthening bilateral relations to serve the shared interests of both countries and their peoples.”

During the meeting, the two officials reviewed existing bilateral relations and “explored ways to enhance and advance them across various sectors.”

At the three-day conference, the president of the Italian Chamber of Deputies, Lorenzo Fontana, emphasized the vital role of parliaments and the conference’s significance in building bridges and promoting mutual understanding.

Parliamentarians engaged in panel discussions focused on “fostering mutual understanding, combating hate speech, and promoting a shared future among people worldwide,” the SPA stated.


How Saudi Arabia’s native wildflowers play a vital role in sustainability

Updated 21 June 2025
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How Saudi Arabia’s native wildflowers play a vital role in sustainability

  • The Kingdom blooms with wildflowers each spring, marking renewal, supporting biodiversity, and enriching cultural traditions
  • Hummayd, a native desert herb, thrives in arid climates and is prized in Saudi culinary and ecological heritage

JEDDAH: In the vast deserts of Saudi Arabia, a humble, yet remarkable, wildflower makes its mark each spring — Rumex vesicarius, known locally as hummayd.

Native to the Arabian Peninsula, this fast-growing plant thrives in sandy soils and plays a significant role in both the natural ecosystem and local culinary traditions.

“Hummayd is an annual herbaceous plant native to Saudi Arabia and widely distributed across its regions,” Arwa Alotaibi, a native plant researcher, told Arab News.

“Scientifically known as Rumex vesicarius, it belongs to the Polygonaceae family, commonly referred to as the dock or sorrel family.”

Hummayd is well adapted to desert conditions and is often found flourishing in arid environments. Its triangular green leaves and red or green flowers distinguish it from other wild plants. It typically grows to around half a meter in height and remains evergreen throughout its life cycle.

Due to its drought tolerance and minimal water requirements, hummayd is suited to Saudi Arabia’s harsh urban and desert climates, said Alotaibi.

“It is particularly abundant in the southern regions of the Kingdom, where rainfall is more consistent, followed by the Hijaz region, Najd, and the northern areas.”

Rumex vesicarius, known locally as hummayd, is an annual herbaceous plant native to Saudi Arabia and widely distributed across its regions. (SPA)

For generations, hummayd has held a special place in Saudi culinary traditions.

The plant can be eaten raw, with bread, or incorporated into tangy stews, Alotaibi said. In the Jazan region, it is especially prized for its unique acidic flavor.

“Rich in vitamin C, the plant aids digestion and helps reduce water retention, making it both flavorful and nutritious.”

Its cultural relevance is captured in a well-known Saudi proverb: “Spring has arrived with the coming of hummayd,” signifying the plant’s role as a seasonal marker of renewal and abundance.

Beyond its culinary and cultural value, hummayd is also ecologically beneficial, serving as vegetative ground cover, helping to stabilize hillsides, rehabilitate degraded land, and enrich green open spaces.

“Its presence supports biodiversity in desert ecosystems, providing a food source for animals such as camels, sheep, and rabbits,” Alotaibi said.

It is a tough plant that grows well in sandy, dry areas with very little water. It can survive harsh desert conditions and still remain green. (SPA)

As such, with its resilience, versatility, and deep cultural roots, hummayd is more than just a wildflower — it is a symbol of spring, sustainability, and Saudi heritage.

During spring, the Kingdom bursts with a bouquet of delicately fragranced wildflowers, blanketing the normally sandy landscape with a beautiful color palette.

The typical blooming period starts from February to April, with slight variations depending on plant type and geographic elevation. Some flowers may bloom as early as January, especially in the warmer southern regions, while others in elevated areas flower later.

“Wildflowers bloom across Saudi Arabia each year, with blooming seasons varying by region depending on plant type and climate,” Alstine Van Joshua, co-founder of the Saudi Botanical Society, told Arab News.

“In general, wildflowers bloom during spring, especially after winter rains when temperatures become moderate and there is sufficient soil moisture.”

Humaid (Rumex vesicarius) is an edible wildflower that blooms in the Saudi desert during the spring. It is seen as a sign the season of growth and renewal has arrived. (SPA)

In the northern regions, areas such as Jouf experience a burst of wildflowers following winter rainfall, while in the southern highlands, areas such as Asir and Al-Baha, known for their cooler climate and high elevations, support a wide range of wildflower species.

Najran and Jazan also boast rich plant diversity, especially among the region’s deep valleys and high mountain areas.

Even in the Kingdom’s eastern and central deserts, wild desert flowers grow in sandy and wadi environments, typically after prolonged rainfall.

These plants are highly adapted to the harsh climate and require minimal water, making them an effective tool in combating desertification and restoring ecological balance.

It is a tough plant that grows well in sandy, dry areas with very little water. It can survive harsh desert conditions and still remain green. (SPA)

“Native plants contribute to biodiversity by providing natural habitats for various creatures, such as birds and bees,” said Van Joshua.

“Their value extends beyond the environment to include cultural and heritage dimensions, as they are traditionally used in folk medicine and decoration during social occasions, especially in regions such as Najran, Asir, and Jazan.

“Reviving this vegetation reflects a deep commitment to protecting nature, improving quality of life, reducing carbon emissions, and achieving net-zero goals.

“It also supports the creation of a more resilient and sustainable environment that secures natural resources and green spaces for future generations.”

DID YOU KNOW?

• Hummayd has triangular evergreen leaves and blooms in red or green flowers. 

• It grows mostly in southern Saudi Arabia, but is found throughout the Kingdom. 

• The plant is rich in vitamin C and aids digestion. 

• It can be eaten raw, with bread, or cooked as a sour stew. 

The preservation of local vegetation is closely linked to environmental sustainability, and is considered one of the main pillars of reforestation projects and the rehabilitation of degraded lands.

Indeed, these plants play a vital role in stabilizing soil, preventing erosion, enhancing rainwater absorption, and restoring soil fertility. In doing so, they support biodiversity by providing natural habitats for wildlife and contribute to ecosystem recovery and stability.

“In the face of relentless drought, blazing sun, and cold desert nights, they stand with quiet grace, unyielding, patient, and strong beyond measure,” Munira Alhazani, CEO of the Saudi Botanical Society, told Arab News.

“These resilient plants reflect our own journey, the emotions we carry, the challenges we face, and the courage that blossoms in our darkest moments.

“It is our passion, a steadfast love for life, that fuels our onward journey. Yet beneath this strength lies a fragile hope, a whisper of fear that in a fleeting moment of weakness, they might tire, fade, and quietly disappear.”

People in Saudi Arabia eat Humaid raw or cooked for its sour taste and health benefits. It can aid digestion and is rich in vitamin C. (SPA)

Efforts to protect the Kingdom’s wildflowers align closely with the goals of the Saudi Green Initiative and the Middle East Green Initiative.

The Saudi Green Initiative aims to plant 10 billion trees within the Kingdom and rehabilitate 40 million hectares of degraded land, while also improving air quality and reducing carbon emissions.

On a regional scale, the Middle East Green Initiative seeks to plant 50 billion trees, including 40 billion outside the Kingdom, in what is considered the largest reforestation project of its kind.

The initiative aims to combat desertification, reduce emissions, and enhance the quality of life throughout the region.

“Local vegetation plays a direct and foundational role in achieving the objectives of these national and regional initiatives, as well as in supporting Saudi Vision 2030 and the UN Sustainable Development Goals,” said Van Joshua.

“Through these efforts, the Kingdom affirms its pioneering role in environmental protection — locally and regionally — while striving to build a more sustainable future and ensure a better quality of life for future generations.”