The Saudi Arabian government has declared that 4,200 pilgrims will be able to perform Itikaf in Masjid Nabwi this year as the holy month of Ramadan draws near. Muslims who engage in the spiritual practise of itikaf spend some time alone in a mosque, usually in the final ten days of Ramadan.
According to reports, the 4,200 pilgrims selected for Itikaf this year must follow strict health and safety guidelines to prevent the spread of COVID-19. These guidelines include wearing masks, maintaining social distancing, and undergoing regular testing for the virus.
The decision to allow Itikaf in Masjid Nabwi this year comes as a welcome relief for many Muslims worldwide, who could not perform the practice last year due to the pandemic.
Masjid Nabwi is one of Islam’s holiest sites and is considered the second most crucial mosque after the Masjid al-Haram in Makkah.
The Saudi Arabian authorities have stated that they are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all pilgrims during the holy month of Ramadan and have implemented various measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
These measures include limiting the number of pilgrims allowed to perform Umrah and other religious activities and implementing strict health and safety protocols.
