New Delhi, Nov 9 (NationPress) The quota allocated for India's Haj 2026 is set at 1,75,025, as announced by Union Minister of Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju on Sunday. This announcement came after a bilateral meeting with Saudi Arabia's Hajj and Umrah Minister Dr. Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al Rabiah, aimed at assessing preparations and confirming the number of pilgrims.

In a post on X, Rijiju expressed: "This is a significant milestone in strengthening the ties between India and Saudi Arabia. I held a bilateral meeting and signed the Bilateral Haj Agreement with H.E. Dr. Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah, Minister of Hajj & Umrah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. We have secured a Haj quota of 1,75,025 for Indian pilgrims in 2026."

This meeting was part of Rijiju's official visit to Saudi Arabia from November 7 to 9, accompanied by a high-ranking delegation, including the MEA's Additional Secretary for Gulf, Aseem R. Mahajan, and the Joint Secretary for Haj from the Minority Affairs Ministry, Ram Singh.

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

During the discussion, both Ministers evaluated ongoing Haj preparations and explored ways to enhance coordination and logistics, emphasizing their commitment to simplifying the pilgrimage experience for Indian pilgrims.

The talks concentrated on improving transportation, accommodation, and health services, ensuring a smooth and pleasant pilgrimage experience.

Following the meeting, the two nations formalized the Bilateral Haj Agreement for Haj 2026 in Jeddah, confirming India's quota at 1,75,025, according to an official statement.

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 Haj 2026 preparations.

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

The Minister also visited key Haj and Umrah-related sites in Jeddah and Taif, including Terminal 1 and Haramain Station, to observe the available infrastructure and facilities for pilgrims. He interacted with members of the Indian community in Jeddah and Taif.

This visit marks a pivotal moment in the evolving relationship between India and Saudi Arabia, according to the statement.

It underscores both nations' commitment to expanding cooperation across various sectors, especially in cultural exchanges and community welfare. The visit further solidified the spirit of friendship, mutual respect, and collaboration that defines India–Saudi Arabia relations, contributing positively to the welfare of pilgrims and the overall enhancement of bilateral ties.