India, Saudi Arabia discuss Haj portal integration for 2027 pilgrimage
text_fields
India and Saudi Arabia have discussed the technical integration of Haj portals as part of preparations for Haj 2027, with officials focusing on services for Indian pilgrims.
Srivatsa Krishna, Secretary of India’s Ministry of Minority Affairs, met Abdulaziz Al Mathami, Deputy Minister for Planning and Digital Transformation at Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Haj and Umrah, in Jeddah on Sunday, August 9.
“Dr Srivatsa Krishna, Secretary of the Ministry of Minority Affairs, accompanied by Consul General Mr Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri, met with Abdulaziz Al Mathami, Deputy Minister for Planning and Digital Transformation, Ministry of Haj and Umrah, KSA, and the Nusuk Masar team”, the Consulate General of India in Jeddah wrote on X.
“They held discussions on technical integration of Indian and Saudi Haj portals, and leveraging emerging technologies to enhance coordination, streamline services, and further improve the Haj experience for Indian pilgrims”, it added.
The Indian delegation also met Abdulaziz bin Abdul Rahim Wazzan, Deputy Minister for Haj and Umrah.
The meeting covered ways to improve the Haj experience for Indian pilgrims in Madinah, with focus on accommodation, transportation, coordination and other key pilgrimage arrangements.
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to stronger cooperation and to ensuring a smooth, safe and comfortable Haj 2027 for Indian pilgrims.
Earlier on Sunday, the delegation met Abdulfattah S Mashat, Vice Minister for Haj and Umrah.
“The delegation comprehensively discussed arrangements for upcoming Haj-2027, with a focus on strengthening cooperation, fostering collaboration and enhancing coordination to ensure a smooth and comfortable Haj experience for Indian pilgrims,” noted the Consul General.
The meetings followed earlier discussions in Riyadh during the week.
On Thursday, August 6, Mr Krishna met Rumaih Mohammed Al Rumaih, Vice Minister of Transport and Logistics Services, to discuss Haj flight arrangements and other transport facilities for Indian pilgrims.
On Wednesday, August 5, he met Nouf Suliman Alnumair, Deputy Minister for International Cooperation, for talks on medical and health services for Indian pilgrims during Haj 2027.