New Delhi: Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju has signed the Bilateral Haj Agreement with Saudi Arabia in Jeddah, confirming India’s quota of 175,025 pilgrims for the 2026 Haj.
Rijiju, who visited Saudi Arabia from November 7 to 9, held a bilateral meeting with Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah Dr. Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al Rabiah on Sunday.
During the meeting, both sides reviewed the ongoing preparations for Haj 2026, discussed ways to enhance coordination and logistical support, and reaffirmed their shared commitment to ensure a smooth, safe, and comfortable pilgrimage experience for Indian pilgrims, an official statement said.
The discussions focused on improving facilities, transportation, accommodation, and healthcare services for pilgrims. Following the talks, the two ministers formally signed the Bilateral Haj Agreement 2026 in Jeddah, confirming the quota of 175,025 Indian pilgrims.
Rijiju also held an internal review meeting with officials from the Embassy of India in Riyadh and the Consulate General of India in Jeddah to assess the preparations for the pilgrimage. He commended their efforts in working closely with Saudi authorities to safeguard the welfare of Indian pilgrims.
As part of his visit, the minister inspected key Haj and Umrah-related facilities in Jeddah and Taif, including Terminal 1 and the Haramain High-Speed Rail Station, to gain firsthand insight into the infrastructure available for pilgrims. He also interacted with members of the Indian diaspora in both cities.
“A significant step in strengthening India–Saudi Arabia relations. I held a bilateral meeting and signed the Haj Agreement with H.E. Dr. Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah. A Haj quota of 175,025 has been secured for Indian pilgrims for 2026,” Rijiju said on X.
“Our discussions reaffirmed both nations’ shared commitment to ensuring a safe, seamless, and spiritually fulfilling journey for all pilgrims,” he added.
The visit marks an important milestone in the growing partnership between India and Saudi Arabia, highlighting the countries’ continued cooperation in cultural exchange, community welfare, and people-to-people ties.
Rijiju was accompanied by Aseem R. Mahajan, Additional Secretary (Gulf), and Ram Singh, Joint Secretary (Haj), Ministry of Minority Affairs. The visit took place at the invitation of the Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah.
