2026 Hajj Aims to Provide Inclusive and Elderly-Friendly Services for Senior Citizens, People with Disabilities, and Women

Sat, 16 May 2026, 10:19 WIB | By Wisnu Arto Subari | Source: MEDIA_INDONESIA | Social Policy

High volatility is still likely to continue until the end of May.

The Hajj pilgrimage is the fifth pillar of Islam, requiring comprehensive preparation, from financial aspects to optimal mental and physical readiness. However, the reality of a waiting period of 10 to 15 years has a significant impact on the profile of pilgrims, who are predominantly elderly with physical conditions that are no longer fit.

In the 2026 Hajj, data shows a major challenge for the government. According to data from the Ministry of Hajj (Kemenhaj), the number of Indonesian Hajj pilgrims in the High-Risk (Risti) category in terms of health reaches around 170,000 people. Of this total, it is estimated that there are 44,000 elderly pilgrims, with 33,000 of them being over 65 years old. This figure confirms that extra services are no longer an option, but a necessity to ensure that all the pillars and obligations of the Hajj can be fulfilled safely.

“The Hajj pilgrimage is not just about managing departures, but about ensuring that every pilgrim receives humane and dignified service. Special focus on the elderly, people with disabilities, and women is crucial because of their vulnerability to physical barriers and accessibility. An inclusive Hajj is a real form of fair public service,” said Umaimah Wahid, Head of the Master of Communication Science Program at Budi Luhur University and Chair of Muslimat Al Washliyah, in a statement on Saturday (16/5).

Umaimah added that this spirit is in line with the Islamic principle of making things easy. As Allah SWT says in QS. Al-Baqarah: 286, “Allah does not burden a person beyond what he can bear.” The Prophet Muhammad SAW also affirmed that religion is easy (HR. Bukhari). In the modern context, this principle is realized through empathetic policies and facilities.

Why is this special service a priority? “First, the trend of increasing pilgrims with special needs requires service standards that go beyond general procedures. Second, Kemenhaj is committed to honoring pilgrims as guests of Allah through service priorities. Third, even while providing convenience, the government still prioritizes the principle of istitha’ah (ability) in terms of health so that worship remains safe,” she said, who is also the Supervisor of the 2026 Hajj.

Elderly people often face mobility limitations, while people with disabilities need adequate assistive devices. On the other hand, female pilgrims need more sensitive arrangements regarding accompaniment and security. Therefore, Kemenhaj integrates health data early on, conducts training for specialist staff, and coordinates intensively with the Saudi Arabian authorities.

Director of Regular Hajj Pilgrims at Kemenhaj, Afief Mundzir, affirmed the government’s commitment to providing comprehensive protection. One of the flagship programs prioritized for pilgrims with limitations (elderly, high-risk, disabled, and obese) is the Murur and Tanazul scheme.

This scheme is designed to provide maximum protection and ease of movement for pilgrims who have physical limitations, so that they can still carry out the core of worship without having to force their physical condition, which is at risk.

A Hajj that is friendly to the elderly, people with disabilities, and women is a real form of respect for human dignity. This inclusive policy proves that the state is present to serve all segments of society without exception. With the foundation of Islamic values, this service is expected to help pilgrims achieve the predicate of a mabrur Hajj in a comfortable, protected, and joyful atmosphere. (I-2)

A total of 1,214 Hajj pilgrims from Kendal were dispatched to the Donohudan Hajj Dormitory. The Kendal Regency Government ensures optimal transportation facilities and assistance for the elderly.

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