India signs Haj 2027 agreement with Saudi Arabia, secures quota of 1,75,025 pilgrims

India has signed a bilateral agreement with Saudi Arabia for Haj 2027, with the country's pilgrimage quota confirmed at 1,75,025. The agreement was signed in Jeddah on November 9 following a meeting between Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju and Saudi Arabia's Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dr Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah.

Rijiju was on an official visit to Saudi Arabia from November 6 to 9, accompanied by a delegation that included the Joint Secretary (Haj) of the Ministry of Minority Affairs and the CEO of the Haj Committee of India.

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During the bilateral meeting at the Jeddah Superdome, the two ministers reviewed preparations for Haj 2027 and discussed ways to improve coordination and logistical support for Indian pilgrims. They reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring a safe, smooth and comfortable pilgrimage.

The confirmed quota of 1,75,025 will determine the number of Indian pilgrims permitted to undertake Haj under the bilateral arrangement for 2027.

The Indian minister appreciated Saudi Arabia's role in the successful conduct of Haj 2026 and assured the Saudi side of India's full cooperation for the next pilgrimage season. Both sides also highlighted their longstanding historical relationship and people-to-people ties.

Earlier, on November 8, Rijiju attended the inauguration of the sixth Hajj Conference and Exhibition and participated in a ministerial conference chaired by Al-Rabiah. He conveyed India's appreciation for the Saudi leadership's continued efforts towards pilgrims' welfare and reiterated the country's commitment to bilateral cooperation for Haj 2027.

The minister also joined visiting delegates in an interaction with Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Deputy Governor of the Makkah Region.

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During his visit, Rijiju attended the Noor-e-Diwali celebration at India House in Jeddah, where he interacted with members of the Indian community and officials. He acknowledged the contribution of the Indian diaspora in strengthening relations between the two countries, describing its members as a bridge of friendship and goodwill.

Rijiju also chaired a review meeting with officials from the Consulate General of India, the Ministry of Minority Affairs and the Haj Committee of India to assess preparations for the 2027 pilgrimage. He appreciated the coordinated efforts of the stakeholders and called for continued cooperation to ensure the comfort and welfare of Indian pilgrims.

The minister also visited key Haj-related and cultural sites in Jeddah.

The visit is expected to further strengthen India-Saudi Arabia cooperation in Haj management, pilgrim welfare and cultural exchange, with both countries reaffirming their commitment to improving arrangements for Indian pilgrims in 2027.