Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to arrive in Jeddah this week, marking the first visit by an Indian leader to Saudi Arabia’s commercial hub in over four decades. The high-profile visit underscores the remarkable transformation of India-Saudi relations from modest beginnings to a comprehensive strategic partnership spanning economic, defense, and cultural dimensions.

The visit comes amid intensified diplomatic engagement between the two nations, with 11 ministerial-level visits from India to Saudi Arabia since the beginning of 2024 alone.

Speaking about the significance of the upcoming visit, Indian Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Suhel Ajaz Khan said, “The Honorable Prime Minister is visiting from April 22nd to 23rd. This is his first visit to Jeddah, though on two previous occasions he has visited Saudi Arabia. This visit is very important as we are strengthening our strategic partnership with Saudi Arabia.”

The Ambassador highlighted how bilateral ties have evolved in recent years. “Our people-to-people connections and the strategic partnership have given a new direction to the relationship. Talks are expected to cover various areas including defense partnership, energy cooperation, and many other issues related to regional and global political scenarios,” he added.

Saudi Arabia is home to approximately 2.7 million Indians who continue to play a vital role in the Kingdom’s development. “The community has participated in the development of Saudi Arabia and continues to contribute towards its prosperity while maintaining a strong connection with India. In fact, the Indian community serves as a living bridge between India and Saudi Arabia,” Khan noted.

The visit is expected to result in several new agreements that will further strengthen the strategic partnership between the two nations, building on their shared interests in regional stability, energy security, and economic growth.