Makkah, July 17, 2021, SPA -- The first batch of pilgrims arrived today at the Grand Holy Mosque in Makkah to perform Tawaf Al-Qudum (Tawaf of Arrival) amid huge preparations by the General Presidency of Two Holy Mosques Affairs. The General Presidency has harnessed all capabilities to serve pilgrims along with implementing COVID-19 precautionary measures. The Director of Crowds Department at the Grand Holy Mosque Eng. Osama bin Mansour Al-Hujaili said that all preparations have been completed to receive pilgrims to perform Tawaf of Arrival on Dhu al-Hijjah 7, 1442H, noting that different locations that accommodate 11,000 pilgrims have been prepared to organize the entry to the Tawaf (circumambulation) area. Eng. Osama Al-Hujaili also said that over 500 employees have taken part in receiving pilgrims since this early morning from the three gathering centers. He added that Al-Marwah Gate is designated for departure after completing the Tawaf, to ensure the implementation of social distancing. --SPA 11:31 LOCAL TIME 08:31 GMT 0009 www.spa.gov.sa/w1586848