Around 60,000 fully vaccinated pilgrims started arriving in Mecca on Saturday, for a downsized Hajj. Under strict supervision, this year’s Hajj season will be the second to take place during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Last year’s Hajj was considered a success as no new outbreaks were reported following the five-day pilgrimage.

Saudi authorities are hoping to replicate that success this year with a limited increase in capacity for pilgrims chosen through a lottery system.