62 Percent of 2026 Hajj Pilgrims Have Returned to Indonesia
The return of Indonesian Hajj pilgrims is progressing steadily. As of Saturday (20/6), 127,709 pilgrims from 329 flight groups (kloter) have arrived back in Indonesia, representing approximately 62 percent of the total quota. Spokesperson for the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, Maria Assegaff, stated that 267 flight groups have been dispatched from King Abdul Aziz International Airport in Jeddah, comprising 103,687 pilgrims and 1,106 officers, totalling 104,753 individuals. Meanwhile, 70 flight groups carrying 26,898 pilgrims and 281 officers (totalling 27,179 people) have departed from Amir Muhammad bin Abdul Aziz Airport in Madinah. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah encourages returning pilgrims to use this homecoming as a starting point to bring wider benefits to their families, communities, and surroundings. Maria emphasised that values nurtured during the pilgrimage, such as patience, discipline, compassion, brotherhood, and sincerity, must be maintained upon returning home. ‘The Hajj journey does not end when pilgrims arrive home. It is precisely then that a new service begins. The value of mabrur must be reflected in attitude, care, and real contributions to family and society,’ she said in Mecca on Saturday (20/6). According to Maria, pilgrims’ compliance and discipline during the repatriation process greatly facilitate smooth services. The Ministry expressed appreciation for the cooperative attitude of pilgrims who adhered to flight regulations, including the prohibition on carrying zamzam water in luggage or cabin bags. ‘Pilgrims’ compliance not only eases the inspection process but also maintains flight security and safety. Zamzam water has been prepared and will be officially distributed at each debarkation point, so pilgrims do not need to bring it in their suitcases,’ she explained. Maria also reminded pilgrims to safeguard their passports, Hajj identity cards, boarding passes, and other important documents throughout the journey. Pilgrims were advised not to entrust documents to unauthorised parties and to report immediately to officers if they encounter any problems or loss. In addition to travel documents, pilgrims were urged to double-check their belongings before leaving hotels, buses, or airport areas. Suitcases and cabin bags should also be clearly labelled to facilitate identification upon arrival in Indonesia. ‘As the return approaches, do not let excitement cause carelessness. Ensure documents are always under supervision, recheck belongings, and follow all instructions from officers until arriving at your respective regions,’ Maria advised. The movement of pilgrims from Mecca to Madinah is also ongoing. To date, 226 flight groups consisting of 86,592 pilgrims and 904 officers (totalling 87,496 people) have been dispatched. The number of special Hajj pilgrims who have returned to Indonesia stands at 15,802, comprising 15,066 pilgrims and 736 officers. Maria expressed high appreciation to all pilgrims, the Hajj Organising Officers (PPIH), flight group officers, health workers, sector officers, and all supporting elements who continue working to ensure the repatriation process is safe, orderly, and smooth. Appreciation was also extended to the Government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and all relevant authorities for their solid support and cooperation during the 1447 H/2026 M Hajj season. ‘From the Holy Land, pilgrims bring home not only longing for their families but also the spirit of mabrur. May this return be the beginning of spreading goodness and building a better civilisation,’ Maria concluded.