RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has extended curfew in the holy cities of Makkah and Madina, as part of measures to combat the novel coronavirus.

The Saudi interior ministry stipulated exceptions, including for essential workers and for residents allowed to buy food and access medical care. The curfew has been extended to 24 hours now.

21 people have died and 1,885 others are infected from the virus in Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Arabia has already stopped international flights, suspended the Umrah pilgrimage, shut down public places, and restricted inter-city movement.

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