India, Saudi Arabia Seal Hajj 2026 Agreement, Indian Pilgrim Quota Set at 1.75 Lakh

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

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

During the visit, Rijiju held a bilateral meeting with Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah, where both sides reviewed preparations for Hajj 2026 and discussed measures to enhance coordination, logistics, accommodation, transportation, and health services for Indian pilgrims.

Following the discussions, the Bilateral Hajj Agreement for 2026 was signed, securing India’s pilgrim quota.

Rijiju also conducted meetings with officials from the Indian Embassy in Riyadh and the Consulate General of India in Jeddah to review ongoing arrangements and ensure the welfare and comfort of Indian pilgrims. He undertook field visits to key Hajj-related sites, including Terminal 1 and Haramain Station in Jeddah, as well as sites in Taif, to assess facilities firsthand.

Interacting with the Indian diaspora in Jeddah and Taif, Rijiju emphasized the importance of seamless and safe pilgrimage arrangements. On social media, he 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 that the discussions reaffirmed the shared commitment of both nations to ensure a safe, smooth, and spiritually fulfilling journey for all pilgrims.

The visit highlights the growing India–Saudi Arabia partnership and reflects ongoing cooperation in areas of cultural exchange, community welfare, and the facilitation of Hajj. Rijiju was accompanied by Aseem R. Mahajan, Additional Secretary (Gulf), and Ram Singh, Joint Secretary (Hajj), Ministry of Minority Affairs.