Ahead of the Hajj Peak, Shalawat Bus Services Temporarily Halted

JAKARTA — Kompas.com - Spokesperson for the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah RI, Ichsan Marsha, said that the Shalawat Bus service will be temporarily halted starting Friday, 22 May 2026 at 18:00 Saudi time.

This temporary halt is to support preparations for the movement of pilgrims towards the peak of Hajj at Arafah, Muzdalifah, and Mina (Armuzna).

“The Shalawat Bus service will be halted temporarily starting Friday, 22 May 2026 at 18:00 Saudi time. This policy is designed to support traffic management, fleet readiness, and the organisation of pilgrims’ transport ahead of the Hajj peak at Arafah, Muzdalifah, and Mina,” Ichsan said in an official statement on Thursday (21/5/2026).

Nevertheless, the Ministry of Hajj confirms that pilgrims who have not yet performed the obligatory Umrah will still be facilitated to depart for Masjid al-Haram and return to their hotels by the PPIH.

“For pilgrims who have not yet performed the obligatory Umrah, their departure to Masjid al-Haram and return to the hotel by the PPIH will still be facilitated,” he said.

Ichsan also reminded pilgrims not to push themselves to travel long distances ahead of the Hajj peak.

According to him, pilgrims should now begin conserving energy and focus on preparing for the sequence of rites in Armuzna.

“Reduce activities that are not urgent, increase rest, maintain your diet, drink enough water, and follow the instructions of the kloter officers, worship guides, and sector officers,” he said.

“Greet and check with pilgrims who are walking or going out alone. If their destination is unclear, accompany them and report to the nearest officer. Your care can reduce the likelihood of pilgrims becoming lost or separated from their group,” Ichsan added.