18/01/2021
Mecca’s migrants face economic uncertainty as religious tourism continues to be suspended | Migrant-Rights.org
Others still worry that a rise in cases could result in restrictions being reimposed again, as had occurred
in Jeddah in late May. The Health Ministry earlier warned that strict measures could also return to
Riyadh as the city recorded a spike in critical cases when its lockdown eased.
Despite a nearly continuous lockdown, Mecca continues to witness some of the highest numbers of
cases in the country. The city’s large population of migrant workers, many of whom are undocumented
and living in cramped housing, maybe a contributing factor. Although authorities have not disclosed
much information, reports from those living in Mecca reveal that several housing complexes for migrant
workers have been placed under lockdown a er employees tested positive for Covid-19.
But while some migrant workers like Tarek and Razak have the option to go back to their countries of
origin, many do not.
At least 45% of Mecca’s population is made up of non-Saudis, many of whom are second and third
generations of undocumented migrants. For centuries, the city has attracted outsiders who visit with
the intention of pilgrimage and then decide to stay back and partake in its bustling economy. Now, with
the lack of support being provided to migrants – documented or otherwise – their futures are more
precarious than ever.
Photo Credit: Thamer Al Hassan
By Rabiya Jaffery
Rabiya Jaffery is a journalist covering migration, conflicts, and climate change from the Middle East.
Read other articles by this writer.
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