India, Saudi Arabia discuss tech tie-up for Haj pilgrims

Srivatsa Krishna, Secretary of the Ministry of Minority Affairs, held a series of meetings in Saudi Arabia with senior officials of the Ministry of Haj and Umrah to discuss technical integration of Haj portals and enhance services for Indian pilgrims.

Jeddah: Srivatsa Krishna, Secretary of the Ministry of Minority Affairs, on Sunday met Abdulaziz Al Mathami, Deputy Minister for Planning and Digital Transformation, Ministry of Haj and Umrah of Saudi Arabia and discussed the technical integration of Haj portals to improve the Haj experience for Indian pilgrims.

“Dr Srivatsa Krishna, Secretary of the Ministry of Minority Affairs, accompanied by Consul General Mr Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri, met with H.E. 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.

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“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 delegation also met Abdulaziz bin Abdul Rahim Wazzan, Deputy Minister for Haj and Umrah and held constructive discussions on enhancing Haj pilgrims’ experience in Madinah, with particular emphasis on accommodation, transportation, coordination, and other essential pilgrimage arrangements. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation and ensuring a smooth, safe and comfortable Haj-2027 for Indian pilgrims.

Earlier in the day, the delegation met Abdulfattah S. Mashat, Vice Minister for Haj and Umrah.

“The delegation comprehensively discussed arrangements for upcoming Hajj-2027, with a focus on strengthening cooperation, fostering collaboration, and enhancing coordination to ensure a smooth and comfortable Hajj experience for Indian pilgrims,” noted the Consul General.

On Thursday, Secretary Srivatsa Krishna met Rumaih Mohammed Al-Rumaih, Vice Minister of Transport and Logistics Services in Riyadh and discussed arrangements for Hajj flights as well as other transport facilities for Indian pilgrims for Hajj 2027.

On Wednesday, the Secretary met Nouf Suliman Alnumair, Deputy Minister for International Cooperation in Riyadh and held comprehensive discussions on matters pertaining to medical and health services provided to the Indian pilgrims for the upcoming Hajj 2027.