By AFP More by this AuthorMuslim pilgrims on Wednesday begin the annual hajj, dramatically downsized this year as the Saudi hosts strive to prevent a coronavirus outbreak during the five-day pilgrimage. Hajj authorities have cordoned off the Kaaba this year, saying pilgrims will not be allowed to touch it, to limit the chances of infection. The foreign press are barred from this year's hajj, usually a huge global media event, as the government tightens access to Mecca. "I did not expect, among millions of Muslims, to be blessed with approval," Emirati pilgrim Abdullah al-Kathiri said in a video released by the Saudi media ministry. Even in a regular year, the hajj leaves pilgrims exposed to a host of illnesses.

Source: Daily Nation July 29, 2020 03:14 UTC