Pictures of first ever Hajj at Mecca in social distancing era

 The socially distanced Haji is currently taking place  [Photo: Saudi Ministry of Media handout]

It is a pilgrimage to Mecca that all Muslims are supposed to do at least once in their life. But this year's Hajj in Saudi Arabia looks remarkably different from previous ones where millions of people make their way to the holiest city for Muslims. The number of people allowed to take part this year has been greatly reduced due to coronavirus fears. Photos have emerged today that shows worshippers in Mecca wearing face masks and gathering in several circles to strictly observe social distancing. 

 Pilgrims wearing protective face masks as they pray [Photo: Reuters]

The eye-catching images show pilgrims predominately dressed in white, while individually holding up matching umbrellas to protect them from the blazing sun. The "new look" Haji has been praised on social media. One person on Twitter commented: "The crowd control is impressive and beautiful. Love the coloured umbrellas."

 The colour of the umbrellas have a meaning [Photo: AFP via Getty Images]

Another tweeted: "Amazing! And such a change to images seen in the past, taking health needs to heart!" According to a third person on Twitter the colour of the umbrella a worshipper holds has a meaning. He said: "The green umbrella is for Saudi nationals and the red ones for temporary residents."

 Pilgrims maintaining social distance as they walk at the Masjidil Haram [Photo: Saudi Ministry of Media handout]

Another person said the worshippers at this year's Haji were selected randomly while one man said social distancing is a "godsend" alluding to previous pilgrimages where people were crushed to death.

 Social distancing is being strictly practised [Photo: Saudi Ministry of Media/AFP]

During the Hajj, pilgrims travel to Mina, a large valley about 5km (3 miles) from Mecca, to throw seven stones at pillars called Jamarat, which represent the devil.

 The Haji ends on Sunday [Photo: Reuters]

 But in 2015 more than 700 were killed and more than 850 were injured during a stampede in Mina making it the Haji's worst disaster in 30 years. The pilgrimage ends on Sunday. 

 Last year's Haji illustrates the difference [Photo: STRINGER/EPA-EFE/REX]

In February Saudi Arabia had suspended trips to Mecca and Medina due to coronavirus outbreak fears.