Thousands of Indian pilgrims in limbo as Saudi Arabia slashes India's private Hajj quota by 80%

April 14, 2025 by News Desk

The Hajj pilgrimage plans of around 52,000 Indian pilgrims have been thrown into uncertainty following a significant cut in the private Hajj quota by Saudi Arabia.

Reports suggest the Kingdom has cancelled the allotment of zones in Mina — a key stop during the pilgrimage — that were earlier assigned to private Indian tour operators.

The abrupt decision has triggered widespread concern among pilgrims and travel agencies across the country, many of whom had already made arrangements for the annual pilgrimage scheduled for June.

According to sources, the 80% reduction in India’s private Hajj quota means thousands of intending pilgrims now face cancellation or delays, despite having paid substantial sums for the journey. No official explanation has been provided by Saudi authorities so far regarding the sudden change.

Former J-K Chief Minister and PDP president Mehbooba Mufti termed the development “disturbing” and called on the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to step in.

“Disturbing news emerging from Saudi Arabia. Reports indicate that 80% of India’s private Hajj quota has been cut abruptly,” she posted on X (formerly Twitter).

“This sudden decision is causing immense distress for pilgrims and tour operators across the country. The MEA must immediately intervene and take up this matter with the Saudi government to seek a resolution.”

National Conference leader and J-K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also appealed to the MEA and Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar to take up the issue.

“In the interest of thousands of affected pilgrims, the government must urgently engage with Saudi authorities to resolve the matter,” he said.