Thailand and Saudi Arabia signed an MOU for the 2570 Hajj season. Jesada is advancing efforts to enhance care for pilgrims and has invited the Saudi Hajj Minister to visit Thailand.
On 9 November 2026 GMT+7, Jesada Thaiyaset, Deputy Minister of Interior, together with Narucha Kosasivilai, Director-General of the Department of Provincial Administration, met with Dr. Abdulfatah bin Suleiman Mashat, Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. They discussed preparations for the 2570 Hajj season and jointly signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between Thailand and Saudi Arabia to elevate cooperation on Hajj affairs and ensure Thai pilgrims receive proper care and facilitation at every stage.
Jesada expressed gratitude on behalf of the Thai government to the Saudi government and the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah for approving an increased Hajj quota for Thai pilgrims, as requested by Thailand. He described this as a significant courtesy reflecting the strong relationship and close cooperation between Thailand and Saudi Arabia.
The MOU's key points cover rules, regulations, and operational guidelines for Hajj affairs to ensure systematic, efficient, and smooth coordination between agencies of both countries. It prioritizes convenience, safety, and the welfare of Thai pilgrims throughout the religious rites.
After signing, Jesada toured exhibitions and booths at the event to learn about innovations, services, and options related to travel and pilgrim care. He plans to use this information to guide future Hajj operations, aiming to select the most suitable and best options for Thai pilgrims regarding airlines, accommodations, transportation, and related services, emphasizing reason, suitability, quality, safety, and the pilgrims’ benefit.
Jesada stated that preparations for Hajj will not be confined to traditional methods but will consider various options comprehensively and use data to inform decisions, ensuring all elements are appropriate and maximize benefits for Thai pilgrims undertaking the religious rites. The main goal is to choose the best and most suitable arrangements for pilgrims in every aspect.
Jesada also extended an official invitation to the Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah to visit Thailand at an appropriate time to strengthen bilateral ties and further develop tangible cooperation in Hajj affairs.
Jesada added that Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul places great importance on caring for Thai pilgrims traveling for Hajj. He has instructed all agencies to prepare in advance across all dimensions, including pilgrim numbers, accommodation, travel, safety, and close coordination with Saudi counterparts, to ensure Thai pilgrims can perform religious rites with confidence, convenience, safety, and receive the best care.
