India has signed the bilateral Hajj Agreement with Saudi Arabia ahead of the 2026 pilgrimage, thereby confirming that India’s quota for the pilgrimage will be 175,025.
Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, who arrived at the Kingdom for an official visit from November 7 to 9, met Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al Rabiah, following which the pact was signed.
Both ministers also reviewed the ongoing Hajj preparations, discussed measures to enhance coordination and logistical support, and reaffirmed their shared commitment to further streamline the pilgrimage process for Indian pilgrims, an official statement read, adding that the discussions focused on improving facilities, transportation, accommodation, and health services to ensure a smooth and comfortable pilgrimage experience.
Rijiju also held an internal review meeting with officials of the Embassy of India, Riyadh, and the Consulate General of India, Jeddah, to assess the ongoing preparations for the pilgrimage season and undertook field visits to key Hajj and Umrah-related sites in Jeddah and Taif, including Terminal 1 and Haramain Station in Jeddah, to gain firsthand insight into the infrastructure and facilities available for pilgrims, the statement said.
He also interacted with some of the members of the Indian diaspora in Jeddah and Taif.
