One of the five pillars of the Islamic faith is to make at least one pilgrimage to Mecca during a Muslim’s life (if financial and physical able). There are several places in the Quran that mention the importance of the pilgrimage:
[Quran 2:125] We have rendered the shrine (the Kaba) a focal point for the people, and a safe sanctuary. You may use Abraham’s shrine as a prayer house. We commissioned Abraham and Ismail: “You shall purify My house for those who visit, those who live there, and those who bow and prostrate.”
[ 2:196] You shall observe the complete rites of Hajj and `Umrah for God. If you are prevented, you shall send an offering, and do not resume cutting your hair until your offering has reached its destination. If you are ill,or suffering a head injury (and you must cut your hair), you shall expiate by fasting, or giving to charity, or some other form of worship. During the normal Hajj, if you break the state of Ihram (sanctity) between `Umrah and Hajj, you shall expiate by offering an animal sacrifice. If you cannot afford it, you shall fast three days during Hajj and seven when you return home – this completes ten -provided you do not live at the Sacred Masjid. You shall observe God, and know that God is strict in enforcing retribution.
Quran 22:27: “And proclaim that the people shall observe Hajj pilgrimage. They will come to you walking or riding on various exhausted (means of transportation). They will come from the farthest locations.”
The Hajj is very important for Muslims. This year, Hajj is supposed to begin Tuesday, July 28 and go through Sunday, August 2. Each year, the number of Muslims that come to Mecca to perform Hajj varies. However, it is estimated that approximately three million Muslims gather for Hajj.
With COVID-19 being a current and imminent health crisis, Hajj has been one of the latest global events to be jeopardized by the pandemic. Although Hajj for this year has not been canceled yet, both Mecca and Medina have been closed for over a month. This was not an action that was taken during the last widespread pandemic. Saudi authorities have asked Muslims to hold off on making travel plans for Hajj as there is a significant risk that Hajj would not occur in the same way it has in years past. It has been over 200 years since Hajj has been canceled. This cancelation would be devastating for Muslims worldwide; however, Saudi Arabian authorities say they will make the decision that is safest for the greater community.
Take a look at the article that discusses this issue in more depth.