Social distancing norms dropped at Mecca's Grand Mosque

The Grand Mosque in the Muslim holy city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia operated at full capacity, with worshippers praying shoulder-to-shoulder for the first time since the coronavirus pandemic began. Workers removed floor markings that guide people to social distance in and around the Grand Mosque, which is built around the Kaaba, the black cubic structure towards which Muslims around the world pray.

The Grand Mosque in the Muslim holy city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia operated at full capacity on October 17, with worshippers praying shoulder-to-shoulder for the first time since the coronavirus pandemic began. Credit: AFP Photo

Workers removed floor markings that guide people to social distance in and around the Grand Mosque, which is built around the Kaaba, the black cubic structure towards which Muslims around the world pray. Credit: AFP Photo

Officials are seen removing social distancing signs at the Grand Mosque in the Saudi holy city of Mecca. Credit: AFP Photo/HO/Saudi General Presidency For the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and The Prophet's Mosque

Pictures and footage showed people praying side by side, making straight rows of worshippers that are formations revered in performing Muslim prayers, for the first time since the Covid-19 pandemic took hold last year. Credit: Saudi Press Agency/Handout via Reuters

While social distancing measures were lifted, the authorities said visitors must be fully vaccinated against coronavirus and must continue to wear masks on mosque grounds. Credit: AFP Photo

Also, the Kaaba remained cordoned off and out of reach. Credit: Saudi Press Agency/Handout via Reuters

Officials removing social distancing barriers at the Grand Mosque in the Saudi holy city of Mecca. Credit: Saudi Press Agency/Handout via Reuters

Saudi Arabia announced in August it will begin accepting vaccinated foreigners wanting to make the umrah pilgrimage. The umrah can be undertaken at any time and usually draws millions from around the globe, as does the annual hajj, which abled-bodied Muslims who have the means must perform at least once in their lifetime. Credit: AP Photo

Pilgrims perform the Fajr prayer without social distancing, after Saudi authorities announced the easing of coronavirus disease (Covid-19) restrictions, at the Grand Mosque in holy city of Mecca, Saudi Arabia. Credit: Saudi Press Agency/Handout via Reuters