Iran and Saudi Arabia Discuss Enhanced Cooperation for Hajj Services

The head of Iran’s Hajj and Pilgrimage Organisation and the Saudi ambassador to Tehran have discussed efforts to improve the quality of services for pilgrims and ensure the timely issuance of Umrah visas. Alireza Rashidian, who leads the Iranian organisation, met with Ambassador Abdullah bin Saud Al-Anzi on Sunday (12/7/2026). During the meeting, Rashidian expressed appreciation for the efforts and cooperation of senior officials and relevant authorities in the host country regarding the organisation of the Hajj and the provision of services to Iranian pilgrims. The two sides discussed and exchanged views on the most important issues related to the organisation of Hajj and Umrah. They stressed the need to continue cooperation and the necessary coordination to provide better services to pilgrims. A key focus of the meeting was the need to begin the process of issuing Umrah visas for Iranian pilgrims in a timely manner, so that Umrah tour operators can carry out the scheduled departures of prospective pilgrims to the Holy Land according to plan.