Faster Immigration Process Allows Hajj Pilgrims from Soetta to Proceed Directly to Accommodation

TANGERANG - The departure of Hajj pilgrims for 2026 from Soekarno-Hatta International Airport introduces conveniences through the Makkah Route service at Terminal 2.

Through the Makkah Route service, immigration processes are no longer conducted upon arrival in Saudi Arabia but are completed in Indonesia prior to departure.

The Head of the Special Class I Immigration Office at Soekarno-Hatta Airport, Galih Priya Kartika Perdana, stated that this scheme is designed to accelerate and simplify the departure process for Hajj pilgrims.

“Upon arriving at the airport, pilgrims are directly directed to the Makkah Route facilities in Terminal 2 (Soekarno-Hatta Airport) to undergo immigration checks by Saudi authorities,” Galih said in his official statement received by Kompas.com on Thursday (16/4/2026).

“With this service, Indonesian pilgrims arriving in Saudi Arabia can proceed directly to their accommodation without undergoing immigration checks upon arrival,” Galih added.

According to him, this service makes the travel process more efficient, especially considering the large number of pilgrims each Hajj season.

Galih explained that all stages of Indonesian immigration checks, including exit stamping, have also been conducted earlier at the departure Hajj dormitory.

“All immigration check processes, including exit stamping, have also been provided centrally at the departure Hajj dormitory,” he said.

Afterwards, pilgrims are transported to the airport using sealed buses escorted by immigration officers to ensure security and smooth travel.

For the 2026 Hajj season, Soekarno-Hatta Airport is planned to handle the departure of 35,285 pilgrims from the Pondok Gede, Bekasi, and Cipondoh embarkation points.

The pilgrims will be flown by Garuda Indonesia and Saudi Arabian Airlines.

To support smooth operations, the immigration authorities have prepared various aspects, from personnel readiness and operations to security.

“With this scheme, the departure process becomes faster, more orderly, and more comfortable for all prospective Hajj pilgrims,” Galih stated.

The implementation of the Makkah Route is expected to reduce congestion at airports and upon arrival in Saudi Arabia, while providing a smoother travel experience for Indonesian Hajj pilgrims.