Saudi Hajj and Umrah minister concludes Pakistan, Bangladesh visits

Hajj and Umrah Minister Tawfiq Al-Rabiah launching the Nusuk initiative in Dhaka, Bangladesh on Aug. 24, 2023. (AN Photo)
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Updated 26 August 2023
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Saudi Hajj and Umrah minister concludes Pakistan, Bangladesh visits

  • Al-Rabiah, who is also chairman of the Pilgrim Experience Program, said the endeavors attested to Saudi Arabia’s longstanding role in serving Islam and Muslims around the world

RIYADH: The Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah Tawfiq Al-Rabiah concluded an official visit to Pakistan and Bangladesh on Saturday, during which he met with the presidents of the countries and high-ranking government officials.

The purpose of the visit was to strengthen ties and discuss ways to cooperate and address challenges in order to improve the experience of Umrah performers and pilgrims from Pakistan and Bangladesh.

He also raised awareness about the mega projects spearheaded by the Saudi Vision 2030.

Al-Rabiah, who is also chairman of the Pilgrim Experience Program, said the endeavors attested to Saudi Arabia’s longstanding role in serving Islam and Muslims around the world, as well as to the country's unwavering commitment, pride and religious obligation to serve pilgrims, Umrah performers, and visitors traveling to the Kingdom.

During the minister’s visit agreements were signed between the civil aviation authorities of Saudi Arabia and Pakistan and Bangladesh.

The agreements will look to increase the frequency of flights from Pakistan and Bangladesh to Saudi Arabia, making it more convenient and accessible for Umrah seekers to travel and perform their spiritual journey.

The Saudi government's flagship initiative Nusuk also held its first roadshow in Karachi and Dhaka to promote the integrated digital platform for Pakistani and Bangladeshi people planning to visit the Kingdom for spiritual and tourism purposes.


King Abdulaziz Foundation reveals rare images from king’s 1916 Basra visit

Updated 20 December 2025
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King Abdulaziz Foundation reveals rare images from king’s 1916 Basra visit

  • Photographs form part of a wider collection documented by British photographer Gertrude Bell

RIYADH: The King Abdulaziz Foundation has revealed archival photographs documenting King Abdulaziz’s tour of the outskirts of Basra in 1916, a visit that came at an early stage of his efforts to build regional relationships.

One of the photographs, taken by British photographer Gertrude Bell, shows King Abdulaziz standing with his men in the Basra desert, the Saudi Press Agency reported. 

The image reflects his early political and diplomatic engagement in the region, as he sought to strengthen ties with neighboring areas and engage with the wider Arab and international community, SPA added.

The photograph forms part of a wider collection documented by Bell, which records key developments and transformations across the Arabian Peninsula during the early 20th century.

The Basra visit holds particular significance in King Abdulaziz’s journey as a unifying leader. 

Rather than crossing borders in pursuit of power, the visit reflected an approach focused on stability, cooperation and long-term regional harmony, laying the groundwork for a leadership style defined by pragmatism and openness, SPA said.