“In continuation of the medical tests King Abdullah had underwent earlier, more tests were conducted on him at the King Faisal Specialist Hospital in Riyadh when he felt more back pain on Friday morning," the Saudi Press Agency quoted the statement as saying.

"It was found that his slipped disc had some blood clots causing pressure on nerves close to the disc. The medical team advised rest to the king. He left the hospital in the afternoon. May Allah protect the king from any harm and give him sound health."

The king has been resting since Nov. 12 on the advice of his doctors. Second Deputy Premier and Interior Minister Prince Naif was appointed to oversee Haj in the monarch's absence.

On Tuesday King Abdullah received princes, ministers, officials and citizens who came to greet him on the occasion of Eid Al-Adha at his palace in Riyadh.