Union Minister of Minority Affairs & Parliamentary Affairs, Shri Kiren Rijiju visits Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

IN NEWS: UNION MINISTER KIREN RIJIJU VISITS KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA

Analysis

• Union Minister of Minority Affairs & Parliamentary Affairs, Shri Kiren Rijiju, was on an official visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia from 07 to 09 November 2025.
• He was accompanied by a high-level delegation including Shri Aseem R. Mahajan (Additional Secretary, Gulf) and Shri Ram Singh (Joint Secretary, Haj) from the Ministry of Minority Affairs.
• The visit was made at the invitation of H.E. Dr. Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al Rabiah, the Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Key Outcomes of the Visit

1. Bilateral Meeting & Agreement
   • On 09 November 2025, Shri Kiren Rijiju held a bilateral meeting with Dr. Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al Rabiah in Jeddah.
   • Both sides reviewed Haj preparations, discussed measures to enhance coordination, and reaffirmed their commitment to streamline the pilgrimage process for Indian pilgrims.
   • The meeting emphasized improving facilities, transportation, accommodation, and health services.
   • A Bilateral Haj Agreement for Haj–2026 was signed between India and Saudi Arabia, confirming India’s quota at 175,025 pilgrims.
2. Review of Indian Mission’s Haj Preparations
   • The Minister held an internal review meeting with officials of the Embassy of India, Riyadh, and Consulate General of India, Jeddah.
   • He appreciated their coordination with Saudi authorities for ensuring the welfare and comfort of Indian pilgrims.
3. Field Visits and Interactions
   • Shri Rijiju visited key Haj and Umrah-related sites in Jeddah and Taif, including Terminal 1 and Haramain Station, to assess infrastructure and services.
   • He also interacted with members of the Indian diaspora in Jeddah and Taif, acknowledging their contributions to the bilateral relationship.
4. Strategic Significance
   • The visit strengthened India–Saudi Arabia relations, particularly in religious affairs, community welfare, and cultural cooperation.
   • It reinforced the mutual trust and friendship that underpins India’s engagement with the Gulf region.

Static Part / Background

• Haj Pilgrimage and India–Saudi Coordination:
  • The Ministry of Minority Affairs coordinates with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the smooth conduct of the annual Haj pilgrimage.
  • India is one of the largest senders of Haj pilgrims, with over 175,000 pilgrims expected for Haj–2026.
  • The process involves collaboration between the Haj Committee of India, Private Tour Operators, and Saudi authorities for arrangements related to accommodation, health, and logistics.
• India–Saudi Arabia Relations:
  • Established in 1947, the bilateral relationship has evolved into a strategic partnership, with cooperation in energy, security, trade, and culture.
  • Saudi Arabia hosts over 2.5 million Indians, making it India’s largest expatriate community abroad.
  • The partnership also supports India’s energy security and investment cooperation under the Vision 2030 framework.

Updated – 09 Nov 2025 ; 07:11 PM | PIB