Jakarta (Indonesia Window) – The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has said that pilgrims will be received on July 17 and 18 in four centers, before being transported to the Grand Mosque by buses to perform the arrival tawaf before heading to the holy sites, Arab News reported.

This year's hajj permits were only issued to 60,000 people from various nationals residing in the Kingdom.

Priority was given to those who had not performed hajj before, and certain age groups.

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah also called on all qualified people who were issued hajj permits this year to visit the nearest COVID-19 vaccine center to take their second dose without booking a prior appointment.

Hajj, the fifth pillar of Islam, will start on Dhul Hijjah 7 (July 17) and end on Dhul Hijjah 11 (July 21). Meanwhile, the day of Arafat will fall on Dhul Hijjah 9 (July 19).

Reporting by Indonesia Window