PM Modi in Saudi Arabia: Strengthening Strategic Ties After 40 Years
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to make history as the first Indian Prime Minister to visit Jeddah in 40 years. His arrival on Tuesday, at the personal invitation of Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, is not just a diplomatic milestone—it’s a strategic power move that could redefine the India-Saudi relationship for decades.
But why is this visit such a big deal?
Let’s unpack the significance of this journey, what’s on the table, and what it means for India, Saudi Arabia, and millions of Indians at home and abroad.
Jeddah: More Than Just a City
Jeddah isn’t just any city. It’s the historic gateway to Mecca—a spiritual and logistical hub for millions of Muslims, including over a hundred thousand Indian pilgrims who travel for Hajj and Umrah each year.
“Jeddah has always been the port of connection between India and Saudi Arabia,” says Suhel Ajaz Khan, India’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia. “It’s culturally, spiritually, and historically vital.”
PM Modi’s arrival here symbolizes more than diplomacy—it’s a nod to the centuries-old civilizational links between the two nations.
Strategic Talks: What’s on the Agenda?
Modi’s visit isn’t just ceremonial—it’s packed with high-stakes diplomacy. A second meeting of the Strategic Partnership Council (first created in 2019) will be co-chaired by PM Modi and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
At least six major MoUs are expected to be signed, with more still being finalized. According to government sources, key sectors include:
- Energy cooperation
- Space exploration
- Scientific research
- Healthcare innovation
- Cultural exchange
- Advanced technology development
Late-night meetings in Riyadh continued into Monday, with negotiators working to finalize over a dozen potential agreements, some of which may even cover defence, investment, and trade.
Hajj Pilgrimage: A Crucial Talking Point
With millions of Muslims in India and Saudi Arabia’s role as custodian of the two holy mosques, Hajj arrangements are always a focal point of bilateral talks.
To highlight the evolving India-Saudi cooperation on religious affairs, especially the Hajj pilgrimage, here’s a comparison of India’s Hajj quota over the years and the current challenges being addressed during PM Modi’s visit to Saudi Arabia:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| 2025 | Hajj quota for Indian pilgrims has increased significantly. |
| 175,025 pilgrims | Represents a major increase compared to 2014. |
| 136,020 pilgrims | This was India’s quota before the recent increase. |
| 42,000 pilgrims may miss Hajj | Due to delays by Combined Haj Group Operators. |
| High-level talks underway | PM Modi is expected to address this with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. |
Ambassador Suhel Khan emphasized that “great coordination has always existed between both governments on the Hajj,” adding that India’s Ministry of Minority Affairs remains deeply committed to streamlining the pilgrimage process.
Economic & Employment Focus
Saudi Arabia is home to over 2.5 million Indian expatriates, many of whom work in sectors ranging from healthcare to construction.
As part of the visit, PM Modi is also scheduled to tour a major Saudi factory employing Indian workers, signaling India’s deep investment in the welfare of its overseas citizens.
This human connection—one that blends economic necessity with cultural affinity—is a major reason why Saudi-India ties are growing beyond just oil and trade.
A Relationship of Mutual Respect
Back in 2016, PM Modi received Saudi Arabia’s highest civilian honor, the King Abdulaziz Sash. That moment underscored the growing alignment between the two nations.
Now, in 2025, the partnership is evolving into a multi-dimensional strategic alliance. Energy cooperation is being matched by joint space missions. Defence dialogues are complementing investment deals. And most critically, both countries are engaging as equals in shaping the future of the region.
What’s at Stake?
This visit isn’t just about bilateral agreements. It’s a statement to the world:
| Key Point | Explanation |
|---|---|
| India’s Global Footprint | India is expanding its presence on the world stage, and Saudi Arabia plays a vital role as a strategic ally in this growth journey. |
| Geopolitical Shifts | With changes in the Middle East and Indo-Pacific, India is deepening ties with Saudi Arabia for energy security, tech cooperation, and regional stability. |
| Saudi Arabia’s Gains | Partnering with India gives Saudi Arabia access to a booming economy and skilled human capital, boosting trade and economic synergy. |
Why This Visit Matters to You
If you’re an Indian citizen, a business owner, a student, or someone planning to go on Hajj—this visit has real-world implications.
| Potential Impact | Details |
|---|---|
| Hajj Quota & Travel | Changes in Hajj quotas and travel policies could impact future pilgrimages for Indian Muslims. |
| Employment Opportunities | New job avenues may open up for Indians in Saudi Arabia across sectors like construction, tech, and services. |
| Business Expansion | Indian companies in tech and healthcare could gain new markets through enhanced bilateral cooperation. |
| Energy & Trade | India could benefit from stable energy pricing and improved trade dynamics with Saudi Arabia. |
This isn’t just high-level politics—it’s the kind of diplomacy that trickles down into everyday life.
Final Thoughts: A Historic Step Forward
This landmark visit to Jeddah is not just about closing the gap of 40 years—it’s about opening doors to the next 40.
From space and science to spiritual pilgrimage and shared prosperity, PM Modi’s trip has all the makings of a transformative chapter in India-Saudi Arabia relations.
It’s a power move. It’s a historic moment. And it’s a sign of India’s growing global influence.
Most read: https://tnheadlines24.com/pope-francis-dies-at-88-after-brain-stroke/
Stay Updated
Want more updates on PM Modi’s visit, the MoUs signed, or upcoming travel and Hajj guidelines?
Subscribe to our newsletter, or follow us for real-time diplomatic updates and analysis.
Disclaimer: TN HEADLINES24 is not responsible for the authenticity of information sourced from third parties, including government officials or agencies. All details mentioned are based on currently available information and are subject to change. Readers are advised to verify independently before acting on any updates or statements shared in this article.
