Over Rs 15 Crore Spent on PM Modi’s 2 Day Visit to Jeddah, RTI Reply Reveals

An RTI reply from the Consulate General of India in Jeddah has revealed that the Government of India spent ₹15.54 crore on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s official visit to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, held on 22–23 April 2025. The RTI sought details of expenditure on hotel bookings and transport arrangements for the Prime Minister’s delegation.

Key Expenditure Details as per RTI

The RTI reply mentioned that following expenditures were made during the visit of PM Modi to Jeddah.

• Hotel Rental Charges: ₹10.26 crore
• Transport Arrangements: ₹4.05 crore
• Community Reception: Nil

The hotel expenses alone accounted for two-thirds of the total cost, making it the single largest component. Transport arrangements, which covered vehicle hiring and logistics, added another significant portion to the bill.

This disclosure sheds light on the high costs involved in hosting international visits of top leaders, especially when foreign travel, accommodation, and security arrangements are included.

But Why so much high cost?

You must be thinking why so high costs are involved in visit of PM Modi to foreign countries. This usually happens because: Whenever a Prime Minister or President travels abroad, entire floors or even whole hotels are often booked to ensure top-level security. The delegation includes not just the Prime Minister but also ministers, senior officials, diplomats, security personnel (SPG, IB, local police coordination), media teams, and support staff. Luxury 5-star hotels are usually chosen because of their high security standards and facilities. In Saudi Arabia, such hotels are extremely expensive, especially when booked at short notice or in bulk.

A fleet of vehicles, including bulletproof cars, SUVs, and buses for the delegation, is required. Local transportation costs also include special security convoys, police escorts, and sometimes even temporary arrangements for armored vehicles. Fuel, drivers, and 24/7 availability during the visit add to expenses.

A Prime Minister’s foreign trip is treated as a VVIP event, requiring massive coordination with the host country. Hotels and vehicles are put under strict security checks, and sometimes even modifications are made (such as installing bulletproof glass, jammers, or secure communication systems). These special requirements significantly increase costs.

India must maintain certain diplomatic protocols. The PM of India is treated on par with world leaders like the US President or UK PM. This means expenses cannot be cut too low, as it would be seen as compromising on protocol or security.