New Delhi, Nov 10: India and Saudi Arabia on Sunday signed the Bilateral Haj Agreement for 2026, confirming a quota of 175,025 pilgrims from India for the annual pilgrimage. The agreement was signed in Jeddah by Union Minister for Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju and Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al Rabiah.
Rijiju, who visited Saudi Arabia from November 7 to 9, held a detailed bilateral meeting with his Saudi counterpart to review ongoing Haj preparations and discuss ways to strengthen logistical coordination. The talks focused on improving transportation, accommodation, health facilities, and overall pilgrim comfort, an official statement said.
Following the meeting, both sides formalised the Haj 2026 Agreement, reaffirming their shared commitment to ensuring a safe and seamless pilgrimage experience for Indian pilgrims. Rijiju also conducted an internal review with officials of the Indian Embassy in Riyadh and the Consulate General in Jeddah to assess on-ground preparations.
During his visit, the minister inspected key Haj and Umrah-related facilities in Jeddah and Taif, including Terminal 1 and Haramain Station, gaining firsthand insight into the infrastructure available for pilgrims. He also interacted with members of the Indian diaspora in both cities.
Calling the signing a “significant step in deepening India–Saudi ties,” Rijiju said in a post on X, “Haj Quota of 175,025 has been secured for Indian pilgrims for 2026. Our discussions reaffirmed the shared commitment of both nations to ensure a safe, seamless and spiritually fulfilling journey for all Haj pilgrims.”
The visit, undertaken at the invitation of the Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah, marks a key milestone in strengthening India–Saudi Arabia relations, reflecting mutual respect, friendship, and cooperation — particularly in areas of community welfare and cultural exchange. Rijiju was accompanied by Aseem R. Mahajan, Additional Secretary (Gulf), and Ram Singh, Joint Secretary (Haj), Ministry of Minority Affairs. (Agencies)
