India, Saudi Arabia sign Hajj 2026 agreement; 1.75 lakh quota confirmed for Indian pilgrims

India, Saudi Arabia sign Haj 2026 agreement; 1.75 lakh quota confirmed for Indian pilgrims

Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju has signed a bilateral Hajj agreement with Saudi Arabia, confirming a quota of 1,75,025 Indian pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj. The agreement was signed in Jeddah during Rijiju’s official visit to the Kingdom from November 7 to 9.

Rijiju met Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dr. Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah, on Sunday to review ongoing preparations and discuss ways to improve the pilgrimage experience. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing coordination, logistics, and facilities for Indian pilgrims, including transportation, accommodation, and healthcare services.

Following the meeting, the two ministers signed the bilateral agreement for Hajj 2026, officially confirming India’s quota. Rijiju later held a review meeting with officials from the Indian Embassy in Riyadh and the Consulate General in Jeddah to assess ongoing preparations.

He praised the efforts of Indian officials and their collaboration with Saudi authorities to ensure the comfort and safety of pilgrims. Rijiju also visited key Hajj-related sites in Jeddah and Taif, including Terminal 1 and the Haramain Station, to review infrastructure and facilities.

Calling the signing a “significant step in deepening India–Saudi Arabia ties,” Rijiju said on X that the discussions “reaffirmed the shared commitment of both nations to ensure a safe, seamless, and spiritually fulfilling journey for all Hajj pilgrims.”

The visit, undertaken at the invitation of the Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah, highlights growing cooperation between India and Saudi Arabia, particularly in community welfare and cultural exchange. Rijiju was accompanied by a high-level delegation, including Aseem R. Mahajan, Additional Secretary (Gulf), and Ram Singh, Joint Secretary (Hajj), from the Ministry of Minority Affairs.

*With agency inputs