Saudi Arabia has announced a series of measures to help prevent the spread of Covid-19 during the Islamic pilgrimage, or Hajj, later this month.

It will limit the number of domestic attendees to around 1,000 and touching the Kaaba, Islam's most sacred monument, will be banned.

Social distancing will also be imposed.

Some two million people were expected to travel to Mecca and Medina this July and August for the annual gathering. But only Saudi residents will be allowed to attend this year.