President Prabowo Subianto of Indonesia made an official visit to Saudi Arabia on July 2–3, 2025, with the aim of strengthening cooperation to improve services for Indonesian pilgrims during their Hajj and Umrah journeys. The President had a meeting with Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud at Al-Salam Palace in Jeddah, where they expressed gratitude for the Saudi government’s dedication to serving pilgrims from various countries, including Indonesia.
The discussions during the meeting highlighted the synergy between both nations in ensuring the safety and comfort of Indonesian pilgrims during their religious obligations in Saudi Arabia. The focus was on enhancing the quality of services provided to Indonesian pilgrims in upcoming Hajj seasons, demonstrating a shared commitment to facilitating a seamless pilgrimage experience.
Aside from conversations related to Hajj-related matters, strategic agreements were also reached to deepen bilateral relations between Saudi Arabia and Indonesia. The Saudi–Indonesia Supreme Coordination Council, co-chaired by the Crown Prince and President Prabowo, concentrated on expanding cooperation in trade, investment, energy, and technology. The two countries have maintained significant bilateral trade amounting to approximately USD 31.5 billion over the past five years.
Furthermore, agreements and memoranda of understanding were inked to encourage private sector investment totaling around USD 27 billion, which is anticipated to generate job opportunities in Indonesia, particularly in sectors like energy, industrial development, and environmentally sustainable technology. Both leaders highlighted the significance of collaboration in the health sector, particularly in addressing the medical needs of Hajj and Umrah pilgrims. They also delved into discussions regarding the advancement of pharmaceutical and vaccine industries along with the enhancement of health workforce capabilities.
In terms of international relations, President Prabowo and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman reaffirmed their commitment to promoting peaceful conflict resolutions within the region. They supported a two-state solution for Palestine and emphasized the role of international humanitarian organizations in fostering peace and stability.
This visit underscored the increasingly robust partnership between Saudi Arabia and Indonesia across various domains, emphasizing their joint efforts to enhance services for Indonesian pilgrims and deepen cooperation for the mutual benefit of both nations.
