The Grand Mosque in the holy city of Makkah, on Sunday, operated at full capacity with worshippers praying shoulder-to-shoulder, and floor markings that guide people to social distance in and around the mosque were also removed, reports Al Jazeera.
According to an official Saudi Press Agency, “This is in line with the decision to ease precautionary measures and to allow pilgrims and visitors to the Grand Mosque at full capacity.”
Despite the lifting of social distancing measures, the authorities said visitors must be fully vaccinated against coronavirus and must continue to wear masks on mosque grounds.
Pictures and footage of worshippers performing Muslim prayers are making rounds on social media.
In Saudi Arabia, the authorities also lifted curbs on fully vaccinated people at closed venues, gatherings, transportation, restaurants and cinemas. Masks are no longer mandatory in open public places.
Earlier, in July, only about 60,000 citizens and residents were allowed to take part in the annual Hajj pilgrimage.
