India and Saudi Arabia sign bilateral Haj agreement; quota for 2026 set at 1,75,025 pilgrims
New Delhi, November 10 – Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju has signed a bilateral Haj agreement in Jeddah confirming India’s Haj quota for 2026 at 1,75,025 pilgrims.
As per agency report, Rijiju, who was on an official visit to Saudi Arabia from November 7 to 9, held a bilateral meeting with Saudi Minister of Haj and Umrah, Dr. Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah, in Jeddah on Sunday. During the meeting, both ministers reviewed the ongoing preparations for Haj, discussed ways to enhance coordination and logistical support, and reaffirmed their shared commitment to streamline the pilgrimage process for Indian Haj pilgrims.
The meeting focused on improving facilities, transportation, accommodation, and healthcare services to ensure a smooth and comfortable experience for all pilgrims. Following the discussions, both sides signed the bilateral Haj agreement for 2026, confirming India’s national quota of 1,75,025 pilgrims.
Rijiju also chaired an internal review meeting with officials from the Indian Embassy in Riyadh and the Consulate General in Jeddah to assess the progress of Haj 2026 preparations. He appreciated the efforts made by the mission and consular teams in close coordination with Saudi authorities to ensure the welfare and comfort of Indian pilgrims.
During his visit, the Union Minister inspected key Haj and Umrah-related facilities, including Terminal 1 and the Haramain Station in Jeddah, and reviewed the available infrastructure for pilgrims. He also interacted with members of the Indian diaspora in Jeddah and Taif.
In a social media post, Rijiju described the signing of the agreement as an important step in strengthening India–Saudi Arabia relations. He highlighted that the discussion on Haj 2026 reaffirmed both nations’ mutual commitment to ensuring a safe, seamless, and spiritually fulfilling pilgrimage for all participants.
According to the official statement, the visit marks a significant milestone in the growing partnership between India and Saudi Arabia, reflecting their shared commitment to enhance cooperation in diverse areas, particularly in cultural exchange and community welfare. The visit further strengthened the spirit of friendship, mutual respect, and collaboration that has long guided India–Saudi Arabia relations, contributing positively to the welfare of pilgrims and the overall bilateral ties.
Rijiju was accompanied by a high-level delegation comprising Additional Secretary (Gulf) Aseem R. Mahajan and Joint Secretary (Haj) Ram Singh from the Ministry of Minority Affairs. The visit took place at the invitation of Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Haj and Umrah.
