National: Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju concluded his four-day visit to Saudi Arabia with a series of key engagements aimed at ensuring a seamless and spiritually fulfilling Hajj experience for Indian pilgrims in 2025.
Rijiju’s visit, from January 11 to 14, included the signing of the Bilateral Agreement for Hajj 2025, attending the 4th Hajj & Umrah Conference, and conducting on-ground reviews of preparations in Jeddah and Madinah.
A significant milestone of the visit was the signing of the Bilateral Agreement for Hajj 2025 on January 13 in Jeddah with Saudi Minister of Hajj & Umrah, Dr. Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al Rabiah. The agreement earmarked a quota of 1,75,025 Indian pilgrims for the upcoming Hajj season. Rijiju emphasized the commitment to enhancing cooperation with Saudi authorities to ensure a safe and comfortable journey for all pilgrims.
During the trip, Rijiju toured the holy city of Madinah, visiting prominent landmarks such as Al Masjid Al Nabawi (Prophet’s Mosque) and Quba Mosque, the first mosque in Islamic history. In his social media updates, he shared reflections on the significance of these sites and reiterated the government’s dedication to facilitating a spiritually enriching experience for pilgrims.
At the 4th Hajj & Umrah Conference in Jeddah, Rijiju participated in the inaugural session alongside global dignitaries, decision-makers, and experts in Hajj and Umrah services. The event provided a platform for exchanging ideas, showcasing best practices, and exploring innovative solutions to improve the pilgrimage experience.
Rijiju also held discussions with Prince Saud bin Khalid bin Faisal Al Saud, Deputy Governor of Madinah Province, and Saudi Minister of Transport & Logistics Services, Saleh bin Nasser Al Jassar. These meetings focused on streamlining transport and logistics services and improving accommodations and healthcare facilities for Indian pilgrims.
In addition, Rijiju visited the Indian Hajj Pilgrims’ Office in Madinah and reviewed administrative setups, healthcare facilities, and baggage handling arrangements at the Jeddah and Madinah Hajj Terminals. He underscored the importance of providing high-quality services, noting that the pilgrimage is a deeply significant experience for millions of Indian Muslims.
The visit highlighted the Indian government’s proactive approach to ensuring a safe and enriching Hajj for its citizens, strengthening bilateral ties with Saudi Arabia, and promoting excellence in pilgrimage services.
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