Iran-Saudi Relations: Is Pilgrimage a Mirror of Conflict?

Abstract

Executive Summary The Hajj (pilgrimage) is considered one of the pillars of the relationship between Iran and Saudi Arabia. This aspect of their relationship starkly mirrors the political and sectarian polarisation in the Middle East region, of which Tehran and Riyadh are the leaders. The Hajj has indeed been the reason behind many of the conflicts in their relations. At the same time, as a recurring ritual for all Muslims, the Hajj is believed to have at times reflected advances and improvements in the disputed relations between the two countries, reflecting a sort of Hajj diplomacy. This paper seeks to examine the extent to which Hajj diplomacy succeeds in breaking the ice in the deadlocked relations between the countries and assists in building security to face mutual threats in the region, and how religion plays a role in constructing relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia. The paper argues that despite religion’s ability to represent a common element that could lead to collaboration, it does not seem to transcend Iran-Saudi relations. While acting as a communication channel and an incentive for broader relations, the Hajj has not succeeded in repairing Iran-Saudi relations. Regional conflicts have in fact spilled over into the relationship between Iran and Saudi Arabia and have further led to deteriorating their ties. Indeed, the Hajj has been a driving factor behind worsening relations, and the only times when Hajj relations have improved remarkably have been during periods of détente and political breakthroughs. Instead, there have been various instances of Hajj politicising.