They already suspended Umrah, where people go to Mecca year round. So far, the Hajj, which is scheduled to take place in July, is not cancelled outright but the Saudi government is recommending that people not attend this year.
Sounds like a rational decision to me.
I agree.
For many years, Hajj pilgrims have had to provide proof of immunization for an assortment of diseases. Their main targets have been polio, measles, and epidemic meningitis.
All our mosques have been closed for a week or two. No communal prayers. OTOH, the across the street seems to have cranked up the volume. Maybe it is Pledge Week again. No international travel. No travel between regions. No buses or taxis. We have been on a curfew from 19.00 to 06.00. No umrha, Hajj may be canceled.
On the other hand, we have toilet paper.
The Hajj has been canceled many times in history.. About 40 years since the 7th century AD.
We have country quotas, you have to be approved for a Hajj, you just cannot decide to go on a whim. If the Saudi Gov and countries of origin refuse permission, then its functionally canceled.
If all COVID19 does is get Westerners to learn about washing then human hygiene will have improved significantly.
The weather has been so nice. I have been eating my meals on the lawn. These are the sort of days when you do not want to go to the office anyway.