India, Saudi Arabia sign bilateral Haj agreement for 2026

Jeddah: India has signed a bilateral agreement with Saudi Arabia for the upcoming 2026 Haj pilgrimage. The agreement was inked by Union Minister for Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju during his visit to Jeddah on Sunday.

According to the agreement, India’s Haj quota for 2026 has been fixed at 1,75,025 pilgrims, ensuring greater access and coordination for Indian Muslims undertaking the sacred journey.

During his three-day official visit to Saudi Arabia, Minister Rijiju held a detailed meeting with Dr. Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Haj and Umrah, to review preparations and strengthen cooperation between the two nations.

The discussions focused on improving logistical arrangements for Indian pilgrims, including infrastructure, accommodation, transportation, and healthcare facilities. Both ministers reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring a smooth and comfortable pilgrimage experience for all Indian Hajis.

An official statement released after the meeting said, “The two sides reviewed the arrangements for Haj and emphasized the need for enhanced coordination to facilitate an easier and more efficient pilgrimage process.”

The Indian delegation also discussed the possibility of using digital technology to streamline pilgrim registration, tracking, and service delivery during Haj operations.

Earlier, Rijiju held consultations with officials at the Indian Embassy in Riyadh and the Consulate General of India in Jeddah, focusing on the welfare of Indian nationals in Saudi Arabia and the efficient management of the Haj mission.

India and Saudi Arabia share a long-standing partnership in managing Haj operations. The bilateral coordination between the Ministry of Minority Affairs, the Haj Committee of India, and Saudi authorities has consistently improved arrangements for the lakhs of Indian Muslims who undertake the journey each year.

The 2026 agreement, officials say, marks a step forward in ensuring that Indian pilgrims benefit from improved facilities, better connectivity, and enhanced safety measures throughout their stay in the Kingdom.

In recent years, both nations have strengthened collaboration not just in religious affairs but also in trade, energy, investment, and cultural exchanges.

The new Haj agreement is seen as another example of growing Indo-Saudi ties rooted in mutual respect and shared goals of service and development.

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