Amid Middle East Conflict, Indonesia's Hajj Preparations Reach Nearly 100 Percent

REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, NGANJUK – The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah of the Republic of Indonesia (Kemenhaj RI) has assured that operational preparations for organising the Hajj pilgrimage in 1447 H/2026 AD have reached nearly 100 percent. This was stated by the Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Moch Irfan Yusuf, while attending the Hajj Simulation event in Nganjuk Regency at the Pendopo KRT Sosrokoesoemo on Thursday (26/3/2026). According to Gus Irfan, his affectionate nickname, this readiness encompasses all main service aspects for pilgrims, from accommodation, catering, transportation, to equipment. “This year’s Hajj operational preparations have reached nearly 100 percent. From accommodation, catering, transportation, to pilgrim equipment, all are ready. We ensure all services provide comfort and security for pilgrims,” he said in his press release on Friday (27/3/2026). He emphasised that this readiness is part of the government’s commitment to delivering more professional Hajj services oriented towards pilgrims’ needs (pilgrim-centred services). With this approach, every stage of the organisation, from preparation to return, is designed to provide a safe and dignified pilgrimage experience. In addition to ensuring technical readiness, the government also refers to the mandate of Law No. 14 of 2025 through the Tri Sukses Haji concept. This programme includes ritual success, strengthening the ummah’s economic ecosystem, and building pilgrim civilisation and politeness. On the other hand, several strategic programmes are also being strengthened, such as efforts to reduce Hajj costs without reducing service quality, organising quotas based on waiting lists to ensure fairness, and developing Hajj Villages as integrated service centres. For this Hajj season, the government is also promoting the tagline “Hajj Friendly to the Elderly, Disabled, and Women”. This policy is part of efforts to provide inclusive services for all pilgrims, without exception. “We ensure every pilgrim, including the elderly, disabled, and women, receives safe and comfortable services,” said Gus Irfan. On that occasion, he also emphasised the importance of Hajj simulation as the main provision. According to him, pilgrims’ readiness is not only administrative and technical but also includes understanding the worship so that the Hajj implementation runs orderly and devoutly. Amid global dynamics, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah continues intensive coordination with various parties, including service partners (syarikah) in Saudi Arabia. This step is taken to ensure all processes, including the distribution of Nusuk cards, run smoothly. Gus Irfan also invited all pilgrims to join in praying for the situation in the Middle East to remain conducive, so that the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage can proceed without obstacles.