The announcement took place during the fifth Hajj Conference and Exhibition in Jeddah, a four-day event that brought together local and international experts to explore innovations and technologies designed to improve the Hajj and Umrah experience.

The initiative is a joint effort between the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and the National Center for the Non-Profit Sector, marking a significant milestone in the Kingdom’s drive to integrate professional expertise into volunteering work.

It seeks to empower organizations and entrepreneurs who serve pilgrims, ensuring high-quality services that align with the Kingdom’s broader vision for sustainable development and community participation.

By focusing on professional volunteering, the program encourages specialists from diverse fields to contribute their skills toward supporting nonprofit and Hajj-related organizations.

The initiative also aims to enhance institutional efficiency, strengthen human capabilities, and improve the overall management of Hajj services through modern methods and innovative technologies.

Key areas of focus include financial sustainability, developing business models for nonprofit organizations, and identifying investment opportunities that ensure long-term success.

Additionally, it emphasizes the integration of digital transformation and artificial intelligence to streamline operations, improve service delivery, and boost volunteer engagement across all sectors serving pilgrims.

This initiative also contributes directly to the goals of Vision 2030, which aims to increase volunteer participation in national development and position Saudi Arabia as a global leader in humanitarian service.

Through these efforts, the Kingdom continues to demonstrate its commitment to building a culture of giving, innovation, and collaboration.

The Hajj Conference served as a dynamic platform where experts, innovators, and decision-makers from around the world gathered to share ideas on enhancing the pilgrim experience.

Delegates from Islamic countries, government agencies, and private companies showcased new systems designed to ensure smoother, safer, and more efficient Hajj operations.

Exhibits featured advanced smart transport solutions, digital health monitoring systems, and crowd management technologies, all aimed at ensuring the safety and comfort of millions of pilgrims.

These innovations reflect Saudi Arabia’s ongoing investment in smart infrastructure and technological transformation to make every aspect of the pilgrimage seamless.

One of the most engaging panels at the conference focused on photography and documentary filmmaking, highlighting their crucial role in preserving the spiritual and cultural memory of Hajj.

Experts discussed how photography captures not only the rituals of Hajj but also the profound emotions, unity, and faith that define the experience.

Speakers noted that visual documentation serves as an educational bridge, connecting generations and promoting global understanding of the pilgrimage’s significance.

They emphasized developing Saudi photographers’ talents to tell compelling stories that reflect the values of peace, compassion, and humanity that lie at the heart of Hajj.

Another session explored Hajj’s cultural and social dimensions, focusing on symbols, traditions, and customs that shape the collective memory of Muslim societies.

Scholars and researchers stressed that Hajj is not only a religious obligation but also a cultural journey that deepens the shared consciousness of the Muslim world.

Participants highlighted the importance of documenting oral histories, preserving heritage artifacts, and promoting collaboration between universities, museums, and research institutions.

These partnerships are vital for safeguarding the legacy of Hajj and ensuring that its stories and spiritual essence continue to inspire future generations.

Museums and cultural centers play a significant role in preserving the human dimension of Hajj, displaying photographs, artifacts, and personal belongings that tell stories of faith and devotion.

These exhibits provide visitors with an emotional connection to the journey of pilgrims through time, reinforcing the universal message of unity and peace that Hajj embodies.

The new professional volunteering initiative, combined with Saudi Arabia’s continuous innovation in pilgrimage services, represents a forward-looking approach to global service and community empowerment.

It stands as a testament to the Kingdom’s dedication to excellence, compassion, and cultural preservation — values that continue to shape its role as the spiritual and humanitarian heart of the Muslim world.

The evening featured live performances, interactive visual displays, and artistic discussions that reflected the growing cultural relationship between France and Saudi Arabia. It highlighted how art continues to serve as a universal language, bridging communities and fostering deeper understanding across cultures.

The French Consulate in Jeddah announced the formation of a new community of former artists-in-residence from the Cite Internationale des Arts in Paris. This initiative was supported by Saudi artists Zahra Bundakji and Danah Qari, alongside other well-known creative figures such as Joud Fahmy, Zahiyah Al-Raddadi, Bricklab, and Nour Gary.

French Consul General Mohamed Nehad described the program as a symbol of collaboration and artistic growth. He noted that many Saudi artists had previously taken part in French residencies, gaining new skills and international exposure. He emphasized that gatherings like Salon des Arts help reconnect these creative minds and strengthen their shared artistic journey.

He praised Saudi Arabia’s dynamic art scene, calling it vibrant, youthful, and full of inspiration. He highlighted how Saudi artists continue to energize the creative dialogue with their innovative ideas and bold expressions, enriching both local and international art landscapes.

Cultural attaché Quentin Richard expressed that the event embodied the ongoing artistic dialogue between the two nations. He explained that residencies in Paris and Jeddah create a continuous exchange built on creativity, respect, and mutual discovery. These opportunities, he said, strengthen ties between artists and encourage them to learn from one another’s experiences.

Adding to the event’s charm, the French musical group Oriki performed during the evening. The group, currently in residence at Hayy Cinema, collaborated with Saudi artist Salma Murad to deliver an emotionally charged performance that fused sound and storytelling.

Their vocalist, Woz Kaly, spoke about the powerful emotional bond formed with Jeddah’s artistic community. He said that their performance invited audiences to imagine cinematic scenes through music alone, encouraging them to feel and interpret stories in their own way.

The Salon also gave the public an intimate look into the creative process. Zahra Bundakji explained that most people see the finished artwork but rarely experience the journey behind it — the experiments, the failures, and the discoveries. She emphasized that art thrives in these unseen moments of creation and collaboration.

For her, the event was not just an exhibition but a living, breathing space for dialogue and connection. It allowed visitors to explore the emotional layers behind every artwork and interact directly with the artists who bring them to life.

Artist Danah Qari added that the event created a space for people to discuss how art reflects life — and how life, in turn, inspires art. She described it as a platform where feelings, stories, and personal experiences merge into creative expression.

The Salon des Arts demonstrated how artistic gatherings can nurture empathy, inspire imagination, and strengthen international friendships. Through every painting, performance, and conversation, the event showcased the unifying power of art and its ability to connect hearts across borders.

As new artistic residencies prepare to begin in December in collaboration with the Tariq Abdulhakim Museum and Athr Gallery, the partnership between France and Saudi Arabia continues to grow stronger. Salon des Arts stands as a symbol of cultural unity — a reminder that creativity knows no boundaries and that true art is born where different worlds meet in harmony.

The meeting, held at the Jeddah governorate’s headquarters, reflected the growing partnership between the two nations across various fields, including culture, trade, technology, and sustainable urban development.

Both sides exchanged cordial conversations and discussed areas of mutual interest, reaffirming their shared vision for stronger collaboration and long-term friendship.

The discussion was attended by Japanese Consul General in Jeddah Daisuke Yamamoto and members of Governor Koike’s delegation.

The meeting provided an opportunity to strengthen diplomatic and cultural ties, emphasizing the importance of people-to-people connections and the role of cities as gateways for international cooperation.

The dialogue highlighted how Jeddah, as one of Saudi Arabia’s leading coastal cities, and Tokyo, one of the world’s most dynamic metropolises, share a mutual interest in innovation, smart city development, and sustainable growth.

Governor Koike’s visit to Saudi Arabia formed part of her wider regional tour across the Middle East, showcasing Japan’s dedication to fostering partnerships with Arab countries.

Earlier in the week, she attended the Future Investment Initiative 2025 in Riyadh, where she shared insights on Tokyo’s ambition to become a global financial and creative hub.

During the conference, she joined a panel discussion alongside the renowned creator of “Captain Tsubasa,” Yoichi Takahashi, emphasizing how Japan’s creative industries, particularly manga and anime, can serve as powerful tools for global cultural exchange and tourism development.

Her visit to Jeddah came as both nations continue to explore new opportunities for collaboration in creative industries, renewable energy, education, and tourism.

The meeting also symbolized the strong diplomatic friendship that has long connected Japan and Saudi Arabia, built upon mutual respect, shared values, and a commitment to economic progress and innovation.

The discussions reflected optimism about the potential for joint ventures, knowledge exchange, and cultural initiatives that will contribute to the prosperity of both societies.

The meeting between the Tokyo and Jeddah governors highlighted the growing synergy between Japan’s technological expertise and Saudi Arabia’s transformative Vision 2030 agenda.

With Jeddah emerging as a center for tourism and urban modernization, and Tokyo serving as a model for innovation and smart infrastructure, both sides expressed interest in exchanging ideas and strategies to develop sustainable and resilient cities.

They discussed enhancing cooperation in areas such as renewable energy solutions, digital transformation, and cultural heritage preservation.

Governor Koike praised Saudi Arabia’s ongoing development projects, noting the remarkable progress in urban planning, green initiatives, and efforts to create a diversified economy.

She expressed admiration for Jeddah’s vibrant culture and its role as a historical gateway to the Kingdom. In return, Prince Saud bin Abdullah bin Jalawi commended Japan’s leadership in technology, education, and cultural innovation, acknowledging the importance of collaboration in achieving shared development goals.

The meeting also emphasized the role of cultural diplomacy in building bridges between nations.

Through initiatives such as cultural festivals, student exchange programs, and creative partnerships, Japan and Saudi Arabia aim to deepen mutual understanding and strengthen global cooperation.

Koike’s visit to the region, which included stops in the UAE, Kuwait, and Egypt, demonstrates Japan’s growing engagement with the Middle East and its commitment to long-term collaboration built on trust and respect.

As the meeting concluded, both leaders expressed optimism about the future of Tokyo-Jeddah relations, envisioning a partnership that promotes innovation, creativity, and sustainable growth.

The dialogue reinforced the shared belief that collaboration between cities can serve as a foundation for stronger global relations and mutual prosperity.

Organized by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in partnership with the Pilgrim Experience Program, the event highlights Saudi Arabia’s commitment to advancing technology, services, and innovation in the Hajj and Umrah ecosystem.

The conference promises a comprehensive program featuring more than 80 sessions and 60 workshops, providing a platform for academics, researchers, and representatives from Hajj affairs offices and diplomatic missions worldwide.

Over 2,400 trainees from across the globe are expected to attend, reflecting the Kingdom’s dedication to sharing expertise, best practices, and modern solutions that enhance the pilgrim experience.

More than 260 exhibitors from 137 countries will participate, showcasing the latest technologies, services, and innovations designed to support pilgrims during Hajj and Umrah.

Exhibitions will include advancements in urban development, smart services, crowd management, health and safety, and digital platforms that streamline pilgrim logistics.

By bringing together diverse participants, the conference encourages collaboration, knowledge exchange, and the adoption of modern solutions tailored to the needs of millions of pilgrims visiting Makkah each year.

High-impact initiatives are expected to be launched during the event, with officials signing new agreements to strengthen the integration of technology, infrastructure, and services for pilgrims.

These initiatives aim to create a seamless, safe, and comfortable experience for visitors, leveraging cutting-edge tools such as artificial intelligence, smart applications, and innovative service delivery models.

The conference underscores Saudi Arabia’s proactive approach to modernizing the Hajj and Umrah experience while preserving the spiritual and cultural significance of these sacred journeys.

On Monday, Makkah Deputy Governor Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz met with Minister of Hajj and Umrah Tawfiq Al-Rabiah in Jeddah to review preparations for the conference and assess pilgrim services.

Discussions focused on ensuring that all logistical, technological, and service-oriented aspects of the event are executed efficiently, reflecting the Kingdom’s commitment to excellence in managing the world’s largest annual religious gathering.

The Hajj Conference and Exhibition serves as a unique platform for public and private sector collaboration, highlighting Saudi Arabia’s vision for sustainable development and innovative service delivery.

By uniting stakeholders from government institutions, technology companies, research organizations, and international delegations, the event fosters partnerships that will shape the future of pilgrim services.

The conference will also focus on enhancing the training and development of personnel involved in Hajj and Umrah operations. Through specialized workshops and interactive sessions, participants will gain valuable insights into modern service practices, crowd management strategies, emergency preparedness, and the application of new technologies.

This focus on human capacity building ensures that Saudi Arabia continues to set global standards for safe, efficient, and spiritually fulfilling pilgrim experiences.

Moreover, the event emphasizes the Kingdom’s role as a global hub for religious tourism innovation. By promoting technological solutions, sustainable practices, and advanced services, the Hajj Conference contributes to creating a more organized, safe, and enjoyable experience for millions of pilgrims.

It also highlights Saudi Arabia’s leadership in combining heritage, culture, and innovation to meet the evolving needs of the global Muslim community.

With the fifth Hajj Conference and Exhibition, Jeddah is positioned to become a center of innovation, learning, and collaboration for the Hajj and Umrah ecosystem.

The event not only showcases the Kingdom’s achievements in technology and service integration but also reinforces its vision of providing world-class pilgrim experiences while supporting global cooperation, knowledge sharing, and sustainable development in religious tourism.

The event, held at Jeddah University, was attended by Prince Saud bin Abdullah bin Jalawi, Governor of Jeddah, along with senior representatives from universities, research centers, and professional statistical associations across the Kingdom.

The forum highlighted how the effective use of data and statistics plays a transformative role in achieving the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, fostering transparency, sustainability, and innovation in national development.

Data at the Heart of National Transformation

In his keynote address, Fahad Al-Dossari, President of the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT), underscored the importance of building a robust national statistical ecosystem to support decision-making across sectors.

He emphasized that data and statistics form the foundation of strategic development, enabling government bodies and institutions to design efficient, evidence-based policies.

“Statistics are no longer just numbers — they are the language of development, innovation, and transformation,” Al-Dossari said. “Saudi Arabia’s investment in statistical infrastructure strengthens our ability to shape sustainable economic and social growth.”

He added that GASTAT’s initiatives align with Vision 2030’s commitment to digital transformation, smart governance, and capacity building, ensuring that the Kingdom remains at the forefront of global data innovation.

Strengthening Academic and Professional Collaboration

The forum served as a bridge between academia and professional statistical institutions, providing a platform to share knowledge, enhance research quality, and promote collaboration in data science.

Experts, statisticians, and scholars participated in panel discussions exploring advanced statistical products, modern methodologies, and innovative programs aimed at developing qualified national talents.

These discussions highlighted the growing role of universities in shaping a new generation of data professionals equipped with the analytical skills needed for the future economy.

The collaboration between universities and GASTAT is expected to foster a culture of precision, innovation, and global competitiveness in the Kingdom’s research community.

Road to Riyadh: UN World Data Forum 2026

During the event, Al-Dossari announced the launch of the “Road to Riyadh” program — an initiative preparing for the Sixth UN World Data Forum, which Saudi Arabia will host in Riyadh in November 2026.

The program aims to showcase the Kingdom’s global leadership in the field of data, statistics, and digital innovation. Hosting the forum marks a milestone achievement for Saudi Arabia, positioning it as a key player in shaping the international data landscape and advancing the global dialogue on sustainable development.

“The Road to Riyadh program will strengthen global partnerships and highlight the Kingdom’s innovative approach to data governance and knowledge sharing,” Al-Dossari said.

Strategic Partnerships for Future Growth

Prince Saud bin Abdullah bin Jalawi witnessed the signing of six cooperation agreements between GASTAT and leading Saudi universities, including King Abdulaziz University, Taif University, King Khalid University, Imam Mohammed bin Saud Islamic University, the Islamic University of Madinah, and the Saudi Society for Statistical Sciences.

These partnerships aim to enhance research collaboration, support statistical education, and promote the development of cutting-edge data systems.

They will also help expand the Kingdom’s pool of skilled statisticians, ensuring sustainable growth and innovation in line with global standards.

The Jeddah forum reaffirmed the Kingdom’s commitment to a knowledge-based economy, where data serves as a powerful tool for innovation and progress.

By integrating academic research, professional expertise, and government strategy, Saudi Arabia is paving the way for a future driven by accurate insights, smart technologies, and informed policymaking.

As the nation prepares for the UN World Data Forum in 2026, Saudi Arabia continues to strengthen its position as a regional and global leader in statistical excellence — ensuring that data remains at the core of its journey toward national transformation and sustainable development.

This pioneering program demonstrates Saudi Arabia’s strong commitment to digital innovation, human capital development, and leadership in advanced technologies, perfectly aligned with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 and the National Strategy for Data and Artificial Intelligence.

The announcement was made during the prestigious LEARN event in Jeddah, highlighting the Kingdom’s dedication to fostering a skilled national workforce ready to drive digital transformation.

Fully accredited by the Technical and Vocational Training Corporation and the Colleges of Excellence, and supported by the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, this diploma ensures that participants receive world-class training that combines rigorous academic knowledge with practical, industry-driven experience.

One of the program’s standout features is its emphasis on accessibility and inclusivity. Trainees can benefit from financial support covering up to 75 percent of training fees through the Human Resources Development Fund, making this transformative opportunity available to a wide range of aspiring professionals.

The curriculum is carefully designed to merge theoretical learning with hands-on projects, allowing participants to develop real-world AI solutions alongside experienced industry partners. This approach ensures that graduates are not only well-versed in technical knowledge but also fully prepared to contribute to major national projects from the very first day.

Each trainee begins the diploma journey with an employment contract, enabling immediate involvement in practical projects and fostering career-ready skills that are highly valued in the rapidly evolving digital landscape. This model exemplifies the Academy’s commitment to producing professionals who are capable, confident, and ready to lead in the fields of AI and digital transformation.

Tariq Al-Shamrani, CEO of the Energy & Water Academy, emphasized the significance of the program: “The launch of this diploma represents the Academy’s pioneering role in equipping the next generation of national talent with cutting-edge skills in AI, data science, and advanced digital technologies.

We are proud to partner with DataVolt and Innovatics to create a program that allows graduates to actively contribute to Saudi Arabia’s most ambitious digital projects from day one.”

Rajit Nanda, CEO of DataVolt, also highlighted the impact of the collaboration: “Our partnership with the Energy & Water Academy and Innovatics combines a strong academic foundation with hands-on business experience, providing Saudi youth with real career pathways in technology. Graduates of this diploma will be instrumental in building AI-powered data centers and advancing the Kingdom’s digital transformation journey.”

The launch of the diploma is timely, reflecting the global trend of accelerated investment in AI, which is projected to contribute over $320 billion to the Middle East economy by 2030.

Saudi Arabia is strategically positioned to capture the largest share of this growth through its vision of a fully integrated digital economy based on knowledge, innovation, and sustainability.

The Energy & Water Academy plans to attract additional industry partners to support the first cohort of 100 trainees, with equal representation of men and women, and training is set to begin in November.

By providing world-class education, financial support, and hands-on experience, this diploma stands as a shining example of Saudi Arabia’s commitment to nurturing talent, advancing technology, and empowering its national workforce to lead the future of digital innovation.

This initiative further strengthens Riyadh and Jeddah as key hubs for technological education and AI-driven development, reinforcing the Kingdom’s position as a global leader in the digital economy while creating exciting career opportunities for Saudi youth in data science, AI, and advanced technology sectors.

In a ceremonious welcome, PM Modi was greeted with a 21-gun salute upon arrival. As his plane entered Saudi airspace, it was escorted by F15 fighter jets in a special gesture of respect and camaraderie. At the airport, the Prime Minister interacted warmly with Saudi officials and dignitaries.

A heartwarming cultural moment took place when Saudi singer Hashim Abbas passionately performed the Indian patriotic song ‘Ae Watan’ in PM Modi’s honor. “When I started singing, my friends told me that one day I would sing in front of PM Modi. I didn’t believe them… I love India. It is a great country led by the great leader, PM Narendra Modi,” Abbas told PTI.

Adding to the celebratory spirit, hundreds of members of the Indian diaspora in Saudi Arabia gathered to welcome the Prime Minister. They greeted him with chants of “Modi, Modi” and showcased traditional cultural performances. Sharing photos from the event on X (formerly Twitter), PM Modi expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and said the visit would “strengthen the friendship between India and Saudi Arabia.”

The Prime Minister is set to co-chair the second meeting of the India-Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership Council alongside Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Discussions will focus on enhancing cooperation in key sectors including defence, trade, investment, energy, and people-to-people ties.

Before departing from India, PM Modi emphasized the importance of India’s evolving relationship with Saudi Arabia. “India deeply values its long and historic ties with Saudi Arabia that have acquired strategic depth and momentum in recent years,” he said. “We have shared interest and commitment to promote regional peace, prosperity, security and stability.”

In an interview with Arab News ahead of the visit, PM Modi described Saudi Arabia as “one of India’s most valued partners — a maritime neighbour, a trusted friend and a strategic ally.”

This high-profile visit follows King Salman’s attendance at the G20 Summit in New Delhi last September, during which he co-chaired the first meeting of the Strategic Partnership Council. Officials from both countries hope this visit will further solidify bilateral ties and explore new avenues for cooperation.

Choosing Jeddah wasn’t random—it’s a strategic signal.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s two-day trip to Saudi Arabia in April 2025 is more than just a diplomatic formality—it’s a pivotal moment in India’s West Asia strategy. What makes it even more significant is that Modi is the first Indian Prime Minister in over 40 years to visit Jeddah, the commercial heart of Saudi Arabia and a key gateway to Islam’s holiest cities. This move is loaded with both symbolic and strategic meaning, reflecting how India is reshaping its foreign policy priorities and deepening its bond with a critical regional partner.

Modi’s earlier visits to Saudi Arabia—in 2016 and 2019—took him to Riyadh, the political capital. But this time, the focus is on Jeddah. This city isn’t just an economic hub; it’s deeply tied to the spiritual journeys of millions of Muslims, including the vast number of Indian pilgrims who pass through its port on their way to Mecca and Medina. The last time an Indian PM visited Jeddah was Indira Gandhi in 1982, so Modi’s presence there ends a 43-year gap and sends a clear message: India is engaging with Saudi Arabia not just diplomatically, but culturally and historically too.

Why Jeddah?

Choosing Jeddah wasn’t random—it’s a strategic signal. Located along the Red Sea, Jeddah is crucial to Saudi Arabia’s trade and plays a key role in the Kingdom’s ambitious Vision 2030 economic diversification plan. By choosing to visit this city, Modi is aligning India’s long-term goals with Saudi Arabia’s, making it clear that India wants to be more than a customer for oil—it wants to be a partner in the Kingdom’s transformation.

Strategic Partnership Council: Moving from Talk to Action

A major highlight of this visit is the third meeting of the India-Saudi Strategic Partnership Council (SPC), co-chaired by Modi and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS). Since it was launched in 2019, the SPC has helped turn friendly ties into structured cooperation, operating across two main tracks: political-security-cultural and economy-investment.

This isn’t just about reviewing progress—it’s about launching new initiatives. Key areas on the agenda include green hydrogen, supply chains for critical minerals, defence manufacturing, and digital infrastructure. Both India and Saudi Arabia are economic powerhouses in the Global South and are members of the G20. Their partnership is increasingly relevant not just for regional affairs but on the world stage.

Defence Relations: No Longer Just for Show

One of the most striking shifts in India-Saudi relations is happening in the defence sector. What used to be limited to polite visits and symbolic gestures has transformed into meaningful military cooperation.

Take 2024, for example. That’s when the two countries held their first joint land military exercise, Sada Tanseeq, in Rajasthan. That same year, they also conducted a second edition of the naval drill, Al Mohed Al Hindi. Even more notable, in February 2024, India and Saudi Arabia signed their first-ever defence contract—a $225 million deal for artillery shells, involving India’s state-run Munitions India Limited (MIL). This deal included the export of advanced 155mm towed artillery guns.

These developments fit well with the broader vision on both sides. India’s “Make in India” push complements Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which includes reducing dependency on Western arms suppliers by building up local defence industries. The partnership now extends beyond just equipment—it includes training, exchanges between military colleges, and high-level defence talks. In a region marked by tension and instability, especially around the Red Sea and Persian Gulf, this evolving defence cooperation marks India as a serious and steady strategic partner.

Energy: From Oil to Green Hydrogen

Energy is still the bedrock of India-Saudi ties, but the way both countries are approaching it is changing. While oil trade continues as a major pillar, there’s a big push toward green energy, especially green hydrogen.

During this visit, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on green hydrogen is expected. This makes perfect sense—Saudi Arabia has vast solar energy potential, while India brings technological expertise and policy support for renewables. Together, they can lead the charge in clean energy innovation.

This collaboration isn’t just about national interests. It also helps both nations contribute to global climate action goals and cushions them against the volatility of traditional energy markets, especially with growing geopolitical tensions affecting global supply.

The Indian Community: A Vital Human Link

One of the strongest and most human dimensions of India-Saudi relations is the Indian diaspora. About 2.7 million Indians live and work in Saudi Arabia, making it one of the largest overseas Indian communities anywhere in the world. They’re not just workers—they’re a vital part of Saudi society and contribute significantly to India through remittances.

Modi plans to visit a Jeddah factory that employs Indian workers—a gesture that goes beyond symbolism. It’s a way of recognizing the role of Indians in building Saudi Arabia’s economy and underlining India’s commitment to its citizens abroad.

But there are also tough conversations to be had. Nearly a quarter of all Indian prisoners abroad are in Saudi Arabia. Although some agreements exist for prisoner transfers, very few have actually been repatriated. Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri confirmed this issue would be “high on the agenda.” Making progress here could boost Modi’s domestic image and showcase a foreign policy that values human dignity alongside strategic interests.

A Region in Flux

Modi’s visit is happening against a backdrop of regional unrest. The Israel-Palestine conflict remains unresolved and increasingly volatile. Meanwhile, Houthi attacks in the Red Sea are putting global shipping routes at risk. These developments concern both India and Saudi Arabia—not only as regional stakeholders but as key players in global trade and energy supply chains.

Both Modi and MBS have built relationships with powerful global figures—U.S. President Donald Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky among them. This ability to maintain ties across a polarized international arena gives their partnership a unique edge, especially as the Global South looks for new leadership on issues like climate finance, economic justice, and peacebuilding.

The Bigger Gulf Picture: Revisiting the FTA

Another topic expected to come up is the long-discussed India-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Free Trade Agreement. The GCC—comprising Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman—is a vital trade and energy region for India. An FTA would mean lower tariffs, better access to markets, and smoother labour mobility.

Negotiating such a deal is crucial as global trade dynamics shift post-pandemic and amid ongoing global tensions. For India, it’s about diversifying economic relationships and securing its trade routes—especially through a region where millions of Indians live and work.

More Than Optics

In essence, PM Modi’s 2025 Saudi Arabia visit isn’t just another stop on the diplomatic calendar. It’s a strategic recalibration that touches nearly every major aspect of India’s global ambitions—security, energy, trade, and people-to-people ties.

It signals that India and Saudi Arabia are stepping into a more mature, multifaceted relationship. What once revolved around oil and labor is now about mutual growth, resilience, and global impact. As the world becomes more unpredictable, partnerships like this—rooted in shared goals and diversified interests—could help shape a more stable and balanced international order.

Following the meeting, Sheikh Amr took to X, to share details of the discussions, posting a picture of himself holding hands with the Saudi Defense Minister. In his post, he emphasized the importance of the dialogue, stating:

“During our meeting with His Royal Highness Prince Khalid bin Salman, Minister of Defense of the sisterly Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, in the city of Jeddah on the evening of Thursday, corresponding to the 20th of Ramadan of this year 1446 AH, the situation in Yemen in general was discussed, and Hadhramaut was present with all its political, security and important service needs.

We sought honesty, seriousness, and everything that bodes well for the promising future. God willing, these files will witness positive changes in the near future.

We, from Hadhramaut, will be nothing but a support and aid to these sincere intentions and to this wise Arab leadership in all calamities and tasks, in a way that serves everyone and achieves stability in all its political, security, and social forms.

We extend our sincere thanks and utmost respect to them for all the good treatment, reception, and appreciation we received, which expresses the depth of our shared fraternal bond.

May God protect the Kingdom, its leadership and people, represented by King Salman bin Abdulaziz, his loyal Crown Prince, His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman, and His Royal Highness Prince Khalid bin Salman, Minister of Defense.”

The meeting comes at a critical time for Yemen, as the country continues to navigate its complex political and security challenges. Hadhramaut, a historically significant and resource-rich region, has remained a focal point in discussions regarding stability and governance in Yemen.

Sheikh Amr’s statement reflects optimism about the future of Hadhramaut and Yemen as a whole, highlighting the potential for significant improvements in political and security matters. His expression of unwavering support for Saudi Arabia’s leadership underscores the deep-rooted ties between Yemen’s Hadhramaut region and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Political analysts view this meeting as a key step towards greater cooperation between Yemen’s tribal and regional leadership and Saudi authorities. With ongoing diplomatic efforts, the hope remains that such engagements will lead to tangible progress in addressing Yemen’s broader security and governance concerns.

According to Sabq Arabic daily, a video of a military trainee Majid bin Nader Al-Abdulaziz went viral who was deputed in Makkah at the sites of Hajj rituals to direct and assist the pilgrims, and a woman pilgrim approached him to give him bakshish as a token of appreciation for their service.

Majid instantly refused to take the bakshish and said, “This is my duty, I don’t need any money for it,” despite the woman pilgrim kept insisting.

The video won the laurels from the Saudi as well as non-Saudi netizens.

Interior Minister also offered him the city of his choice to work in, and a special invitation to visit him at his office.