Jeddah: President of Chad Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno, along with his accompanying delegation, arrived in Jeddah on Monday to perform Umrah after participating in the Extraordinary Arab and Islamic Summit. He was welcomed at King Abdulaziz International Airport by Makkah Region Deputy Governor Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz and several senior officials. According to Saudi Press Agency, the visit underscores the ongoing diplomatic and religious connections between Chad and Saudi Arabia. The President's arrival in Jeddah is part of a broader engagement with regional leaders, following deliberations at the summit. During his stay, President Déby Itno is expected to engage in religious activities associated with Umrah, a pilgrimage to Mecca that can be undertaken at any time of the year, unlike the Hajj which is performed in a specific period. The delegation accompanying President Déby Itno is comprised of high-ranking officials from Chad, highlighting the significance of this religious visit. The presence of senior Saudi officials at the airport signifies the importance of the relationship between the two nations. The visit is also anticipated to involve discussions related to strengthening bilateral ties between Chad and Saudi Arabia, although no official meetings have been confirmed as part of the President's itinerary.
Saturday, April 25, 2026