India Secures 175,025 Hajj Pilgrimage Quota for 2026 in Historic Agreement with Saudi Arabia

The quota for Indian pilgrims for Hajj 2026 has been established at 175,025, as confirmed in an official statement.

New Delhi:

Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju has finalized the bilateral Hajj Agreement in Jeddah, securing a quota of 175,025 pilgrims for India for the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage.

During his official visit to Saudi Arabia from November 7-9, Rijiju engaged in bilateral discussions with Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al Rabiah, in Jeddah on Sunday.

The meeting between the ministers involved reviewing current Hajj preparations, exploring ways to enhance coordination and logistical support, and reinforcing their joint commitment to improve the pilgrimage process for Indian pilgrims, according to an official statement.

The talks centered on enhancing facilities, transportation, accommodation, and health services to provide pilgrims with a comfortable and seamless experience.

Following these discussions, both nations signed the Bilateral Hajj Agreement for Hajj-2026 in Jeddah, confirming India's allocation of 175,025 pilgrims.

During his visit, Rijiju also conducted an internal review meeting with officials from the Indian Embassy in Riyadh and the Consulate General in Jeddah to evaluate the ongoing preparations for Hajj-2026.

He commended the efforts of the Mission and Consulate teams for their close coordination with Saudi authorities to ensure Indian pilgrims' welfare and comfort.

The minister also made field visits to important Hajj and Umrah-related locations in Jeddah and Taif, including Terminal 1 and Haramain Station in Jeddah, to gain direct knowledge of the infrastructure and facilities available for pilgrims.

Additionally, Rijiju interacted with members of the Indian diaspora in Jeddah and Taif during his visit.

"A significant step in deepening the India-Saudi Arabia ties. Held a Bilateral Meeting & signed the Bilateral Hajj Agreement with H.E. Dr. Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah, Minister of Hajj & Umrah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Hajj Quota of 175,025 has been secured for Indian Pilgrims for 2026," Rijiju shared on X.

"Our discussions on Hajj 2026 reaffirmed the shared commitment of both nations to ensure a safe, seamless & spiritually fulfilling journey for all Hajj pilgrims," he added.

The visit represents an important milestone in the growing partnership between India and Saudi Arabia, according to the official statement.

It demonstrates the shared commitment of both countries to expand cooperation across various fields, particularly in cultural exchange and community welfare.

The visit further strengthened the spirit of friendship, mutual respect, and collaboration that continues to guide India-Saudi Arabia relations, positively contributing to pilgrim welfare and broader bilateral ties.

Rijiju was accompanied by a high-level delegation including Aseem R. Mahajan, Additional Secretary (Gulf), and Ram Singh, Joint Secretary (Hajj), from the Ministry of Minority Affairs.

The visit was made at the invitation of the Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah.