Saudi to introduce more flights to India at low cost

NEW DELHI: Saudi Hajj-Umrah minister Dr Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah said that more direct flights to India will be started at low cost for Hajj pilgrims. The Saudi Minister made the announcement at a press conference after holding discussions with Minority Affairs Minister Smriti Irani and Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan in Delhi.

"Three more visa centres will be opened in India. The facilities will be increased according to the increase in the number of pilgrims from India. Indians travelling to the West or the Middle East can obtain a stopover visa, that is, for 96 hours, and get a visa within the ticket issuance process, which allows them to perform Umrah and visit any city in the Kingdom," Dr Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah said.

Minister Smriti Irani said that an agreement was reached between both countries to increase cooperation regarding Hajj.

"47 percent of Hajj pilgrims travelled from India this year. This includes 4000 women. The Hajj pilgrimage is crucial in India-Saudi bilateral relations," minister V Muraleedharan said.