iJeddah, 10 Jan. 2026

Report By Shahid Nayeem

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar arrived in Jeddah from Madina AL Munawara to attend OIC's Extraordinary Conference of Foreign Ministers. During his visit today, he inaugurated the state-of-the-art and purpose-built 8,700-square-metre new Consulate General of Pakistan building in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, today, Saturday.

The new premises feature modern consular services, energy-efficient systems, and architectural elements reflecting Pakistani, Saudi, and Islamic heritage. The ceremony was attended by Ambassador Ahmed Farooq, Consul General Syed Mustafa Rabbani, distinguished Saudi dignitaries, members of the Pakistani community, and consulate officials.

In his address, Ishaq Dar commended the efforts of the consulate and the cooperation extended by Saudi authorities. He emphasized the government’s commitment to facilitating overseas Pakistanis and highlighted that the move to the new chancery would enhance operational efficiency.

Consul General Syed Mustafa Rabbani said the project, costing 33–34 million Saudi riyals, aims to improve service delivery, reduce congestion, and enhance facilities for visitors. The new building is set to significantly improve services for the 1.8 million Pakistanis residing in the western region of Saudi Arabia. The consulate serves one of the largest overseas Pakistani communities, providing passport, consular, and welfare services to millions in western Saudi Arabia. The new complex replaces outdated and overcrowded facilities and has been designed to meet the community’s growing needs.

The event featured the hoisting of the Pakistani flag, ribbon-cutting and plaque unveiling ceremonies, and the planting of a sapling. Prayers for Pakistan and Saudi Arabia were also offered, followed by a video presentation showcasing the features of the new building.

The foundation stone was laid on 23 December 2024 by Pakistan’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Ahmed Farooq, marking the start of a long-awaited infrastructure upgrade for the consulate.