Hajj

Chinese Muslims take roundabout trips for their Hajj pilgrimage, trying to circumvent China's tightened surveillance at every turn — and possible arrest on their return, pilgrims and tour leaders say.

Before the pandemic, the hajj pilgrimage drew millions each year to Islam's holy city of Mecca, home to the cube-shaped Kaaba that observant Muslims pray toward five times a day.

The Saudi Arabian government's new rules for the pilgrimage left many Muslims frustrated and disappointed. Some couldn't make the journey, and others were shocked by the conditions upon arrival.

Religiously speaking, it was not a substitute for the real pilgrimage, which all Muslims must try to make in their lifetime. But it inspired many to go once it's possible again.

Officials announce on Monday that this year's pilgrimage to Mecca will be restricted in size and limited to Saudi residents. In a typical year, millions of Muslims would make the journey.

"Our religion teaches us that saving lives is an obligation. That is the consideration in this policy," Minister of Religious Affairs Fachrul Razi says.

Qatar has been isolated by neighboring countries in a heated diplomatic standoff. But Saudi Arabia has announced it plans to open its border to allow pilgrims from the tiny Gulf country.

More than a million Muslims have embarked on the yearly hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, after last year's holy event was marred by a deadly stampede that killed hundreds and stoked regional tensions.

Saudi Arabia announced the new figure, up from 717 on Friday. Meanwhile, Iran has said the tragedy is "not incompetence ... [but] a crime" due to lax security during the pilgrimage.