India, Saudi Arabia Finalize Hajj 2026 Agreement; Quota Set at 1.75 Lakh Pilgrims

India, Saudi Arabia Sign Hajj 2026 Agreement; Indian Quota Fixed at 1.75 Lakh

Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju signed the bilateral Hajj Agreement with Saudi Arabia in Jeddah, securing a quota of 175,025 for Indian pilgrims for Hajj–2026. The agreement was finalized during Rijiju’s official visit to Saudi Arabia from November 7 to 9.

Rijiju held a bilateral meeting with Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah, where both sides reviewed preparations for the upcoming pilgrimage. Discussions focused on enhancing coordination, logistics, facilities, transportation, accommodation, and health services to ensure a safe and comfortable pilgrimage experience for Indian pilgrims.

Following the meeting, the Bilateral Hajj Agreement for 2026 was signed, confirming India’s quota at 175,025 pilgrims.

During his visit, Rijiju also conducted internal review meetings with officials from the Embassy of India in Riyadh and the Consulate General of India in Jeddah to assess Hajj preparations. He appreciated the efforts of Indian diplomatic teams working closely with Saudi authorities to safeguard the welfare and comfort of pilgrims.

Rijiju visited key Hajj and Umrah infrastructure sites in Jeddah and Taif, including Terminal 1 and Haramain Station, to gain firsthand insights into facilities available for pilgrims. He also interacted with members of the Indian diaspora in both cities.

Sharing details on social media, Rijiju said, “A significant step in deepening India–Saudi Arabia ties. Held a bilateral meeting & signed the Bilateral Hajj Agreement with H.E. Dr. Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah. Hajj quota of 175,025 secured for Indian pilgrims for 2026.”

He added, “Our discussions reaffirmed the shared commitment of both nations to ensure a safe, seamless, and spiritually fulfilling journey for all Hajj pilgrims.”

The visit underscores the growing partnership between India and Saudi Arabia, highlighting cooperation in cultural exchange, community welfare, and the smooth facilitation of Hajj. Rijiju was accompanied by a high-level delegation including Aseem R. Mahajan, Additional Secretary (Gulf), and Ram Singh, Joint Secretary (Hajj), Ministry of Minority Affairs.