By Badea Abu Al-Naja

Saudi Gazette

MAKKAH — Worshipers will not be allowed to offer non-obligatory prayers in the mataf (circumambulation) area till the end of Ramadan, according to instructions issued by Emir of Makkah Prince Khaled Al-Faisal, who is the chairman of the Central Haj Committee.

No Iftar meals will be allowed inside the mataf.

The Emir ordered to clear the mataaf area in order to allow pilgrims performing circumambulation to complete their Umrah without hindrance.

Worshipers and pilgrims will be allowed to pray the five obligatory prayers inside the mataaf.

The Emir’s instructions came after he looked into reports that worshipers praying inside the mataaf obstruct pilgrims and visitors performing circumambulation.