Jeddah, October 20 — In one of India’s busiest diplomatic outposts, the Indian Consulate in Jeddah, Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri, the newly appointed Consul General, is blending trade with spirituality in a city known for its commercial significance and spiritual relevance to the Muslim world. The Indian consulate here plays a pivotal role in handling the largest gathering of Indian pilgrims outside the country during the Haj season. Now, under Suri’s leadership, economic diplomacy is gaining fresh momentum.
Suri, who hails from a distinguished background with a solid educational foundation in international relations and diplomacy, is a graduate of the prestigious Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU). He later pursued further specialization in international trade. His diplomatic career has seen him serve in several key positions, including in India’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry’s West Asia and Northern Africa division. His deep understanding of the Gulf region’s trade and commerce has given him a unique advantage in enhancing bilateral relations with Saudi Arabia.
Since his arrival in Jeddah, Suri has actively engaged with prominent business houses in the port city, signaling a renewed focus on promoting Indian trade in this strategic location. Sources within the consulate highlight that this is the first time a Consul General-level diplomat has consistently reached out to Saudi business leaders with a singular agenda—boosting Indian trade and economic partnerships.
Prior to taking over as Consul General, Suri was stationed in Makkah, where he personally oversaw the Haj operations, ensuring smooth transport and logistics for thousands of Indian pilgrims. India, being the third largest contributor of Haj pilgrims globally, demands meticulous coordination, and Suri’s hands-on approach earned him recognition for his efficient handling of the pilgrimage logistics.
Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri’s professional reputation extends beyond his current role. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Suri played a crucial part in bolstering the image of Indian healthcare workers in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. His efforts to showcase the skills and dedication of Indian medical personnel were instrumental in strengthening ties with the GCC nations during a period of crisis. His work earned widespread appreciation both in the Gulf and back home in India.
Suri’s diplomatic tenure in Saudi Arabia is seen as a fresh chapter in India’s efforts to engage with the Kingdom on multiple fronts—spiritual, economic, and cultural. His ability to navigate the dual challenges of managing India’s pilgrim population during Haj and fostering trade ties has set him apart as a pragmatic and effective diplomat.
Under his leadership, the consulate’s trade section has become increasingly active, connecting Indian businesses with potential Saudi partners and opening new avenues for cooperation. Suri’s approach is seen as a strategic move to align India’s economic interests with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the Kingdom’s economy beyond oil.
As India continues to strengthen its global trade relations, diplomats like Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri are playing an integral role in forging new paths and ensuring that Indian businesses find a strong foothold in international markets.
