Sunday, Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah announced Hajj pilgrimage will be held under “special conditions” to protect against the spread of COVID-19.

“Health authorities in the Kingdom continue to assess the situation and are taking all measures to ensure the safety of all,” said a ministry spokesman during a press conference.

He added that further details on the operational plans for 2021's Hajj will be announced “at a later time.”

In 2020, Saudi Arabia only permitted a limited number of those living in the Kingdom who met certain criteria to participate in Hajj, which is considered one of the five pillars of Islam and is required for able-bodied Muslims at least once in their life.

According to the ministry, those who secured a spot in last years pilgrimage were randomly selected through an automated system with no human involvement,

The individuals were required to self-isolate in their homes seven days prior to arriving in Mecca, as part of the requirements to participate in the Hajj pilgrimage.

The participants were also quarantined in a hotel until the start of the rituals.

They were transported in assigned groups daily while every 50 individuals were accompanied by a health leader to ensure obedience to safety measures, including wearing a face mask and social distancing.