First Batch of Indonesian Hajj Pilgrims Arrives in Madinah

Indonesian Hajj pilgrims from the first batch of Yogyakarta embarkation arrived in Madinah, Saudi Arabia, on Wednesday (22/4). The pilgrims arrived at Prince Muhammad bin Abdul Aziz International Airport at 07.30 WAS or 11.30 WIB.

According to a release from the Hajj Media Centre (MCH) 2026, 360 people are included in this batch, comprising 157 male pilgrims and 203 female pilgrims, including batch officials.

In addition, Hajj officials from 2026 regions handling health and general services are accompanying them.

One pilgrim from Yogyakarta, Supomo Sentikno Sentono, 66, expressed gratitude for having arrived in Madinah.

“Alhamdulillah, I will perform Hajj with my child and wife,” said Sentono, who has registered for Hajj since 2012. (Z-10)

A total of 360 Hajj pilgrims from the first batch of Medan embarkation were sent off to Madinah from Kualanamu Airport.

The Ministry of Religious Affairs reminds regions not to overdo ceremonial send-offs for 2026 Hajj pilgrims. Long events are considered risky for pilgrims’ health, especially the elderly.

The Indonesian Hajj Organising Committee in Saudi Arabia urges Indonesian Hajj pilgrims to be wary of extreme weather in Mecca and Madinah. Services remain normal, but worship is advised in hotels if there is heavy rain.

The waiting list for prospective Hajj pilgrims from West Bandung Regency now reaches up to 26 years to fulfil the fifth pillar of Islam.

Hajj pilgrims are reminded to be vigilant against dehydration due to temperatures up to 40°C in Saudi Arabia. Follow simple tips of “2 sips every 10 minutes” to stay hydrated.

A total of 23 Nusantara kitchens are prepared to serve Indonesian Hajj pilgrims in Madinah. The food is guaranteed to have an authentic Indonesian flavour with strict supervision.