In New Delhi, Kiren Rijiju, the Minister of Minority Affairs, has formalized the bilateral Haj Agreement in Jeddah, confirming India’s quota for the 2026 pilgrimage at 175,025.
Rijiju was on an official trip to Saudi Arabia from November 7 to 9, where he engaged in a bilateral discussion with Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al Rabiah, the Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah, in Jeddah.
During their meeting, both ministers evaluated the current Haj preparations, deliberated on strategies to improve coordination and logistical support, and reiterated their mutual commitment to optimizing the pilgrimage process for Indian pilgrims, as stated in an official announcement.
The talks concentrated on enhancing facilities, transportation, accommodation, and health services to guarantee a seamless and pleasant pilgrimage experience.
After the meeting, the two parties executed the Bilateral Haj Agreement between India and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for Haj–2026 in Jeddah. The confirmed quota for India stands at 175,025, according to the statement.
Throughout the visit, Rijiju also conducted an internal review meeting with officials from the Embassy of India in Riyadh and the Consulate General of India in Jeddah to evaluate the ongoing preparations for Haj–2026.
He expressed gratitude for the efforts made by the Mission and Consulate teams in close collaboration with Saudi authorities to ensure the welfare and comfort of Indian pilgrims.
Additionally, the minister conducted field visits to significant Haj and Umrah-related locations in Jeddah and Taif, including Terminal 1 and Haramain Station in Jeddah, to obtain firsthand knowledge of the infrastructure and facilities available for pilgrims, as stated.
He also engaged with several members of the Indian diaspora in Jeddah and Taif.
“This is a crucial step in strengthening the ties between India and Saudi Arabia. I held a Bilateral Meeting and signed the Bilateral Haj Agreement with H.E. Dr. Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah, Minister of Hajj & Umrah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. A Haj Quota of 175,025 has been secured for Indian Pilgrims for 2026,” Rijiju stated.
“Our discussions regarding Haj 2026 reaffirmed the mutual commitment of both nations to ensure a safe, seamless, and spiritually enriching journey for all Haj pilgrims,” he added.
The visit signifies a pivotal milestone in the evolving partnership between India and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, as noted in the statement.
It illustrates the shared dedication of both nations to enhance cooperation across various sectors, particularly in cultural exchange and community welfare.
Furthermore, the visit strengthened the spirit of friendship, mutual respect, and collaboration that continues to shape India–Saudi Arabia relations, positively impacting the welfare of pilgrims and the overall enhancement of bilateral ties.
Rijiju was accompanied by a high-level delegation that included Aseem R. Mahajan, Additional Secretary, and Ram Singh, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Minority Affairs.
This visit was conducted at the invitation of the Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah.
