Saudi Arabia bans selfies, photos & videos at Islam’s two holiest mosques

ISLAMABAD: The Saudi Arabian government has banned pilgrims from taking photos and videos using any devices for any purpose at Islam's two holiest mosques.

According to Arab news, the ban imposed in Makkah's Masjid al-Haram, known as the Great Mosque of Makkah, and Medina's Masjid an-Nabawi, or 'The Prophet's Mosque,' was taken by the Saudi foreign ministry.

Saudi authorities stated that the measure was imposed to protect and preserve the holy sites, prevent disturbances of worshipers and ensure tranquility while performing acts of worship.

In recent years, many pilgrims to both holy sites have posted pictures on Instagram and Facebook, ranging from posing in front of the Kaaba, to taking selfies on the upper floor of the Grand Mosque to standing under the umbrella-like canopies at Nabawi Mosque.

"In the case of any violation of the ban, security guards have been instructed to confiscate the photos and the camera if needed," the statement said, adding that the change should be disseminated to every haj and umrah tour operator in their respective countries.

Tabung Haji chairman Abdul Azeez Abdul Rahim said that if confirmed, Malaysians performing the Haj and umrah would be advised to adhere strictly to the rule.