Haj 2026 Begins with Warm Welcome for Indian Pilgrims in Madinah

Madinah : (Asia Times News) The annual Haj pilgrimage for 2026 commenced on a positive and spiritually uplifting note as the first batch of Indian pilgrims arrived in the holy city of . The group received a warm and heartfelt welcome at Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport from senior Indian and Saudi officials.

Leading the reception were India’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, , and Consul General in Jeddah, . They were joined by senior representatives from Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Haj and Umrah, including Deputy Ministers Prof. Abdulaziz A. Wazzan and Eng. Ayad Abdulrahman Rahbini, along with other officials.

The dignitaries greeted the arriving pilgrims and reviewed the arrangements made for their smooth transit and stay. Ambassador Khan also conducted an inspection of facilities at the Madinah airport to ensure that all logistical and support services for Indian Hajis are functioning efficiently.

Haj 2026 begins with a warm and heartfelt welcome in Madinah!

The first group of Indian Hajis was received at Madinah Airport by Ambassador Dr. Suhel Ajaz Khan and Consul General @CGIJeddah Shri Fahad Suri, along with Deputy Ministers @HajMinistry H.E. Prof. Abdulaziz A. Wazzan… pic.twitter.com/UK9DkJ2tD8

— India in Saudi Arabia (@IndianEmbRiyadh) April 18, 2026

During his visit, the Ambassador interacted with members of the Indian community who have volunteered to assist pilgrims. He appreciated their efforts in providing on-ground support, guidance, and care to ensure a hassle-free pilgrimage experience.

The Indian Embassy in Saudi Arabia extended its best wishes to all pilgrims, expressing hope for a safe, comfortable, and spiritually fulfilling Haj journey.

Haj remains one of the largest annual religious gatherings in the world, and Indian authorities, in coordination with Saudi counterparts, continue to prioritize the welfare and convenience of pilgrims throughout the sacred journey.