First Batch of Second Wave Hajj Pilgrims Arrive in Madinah, Welcomed with Roses by Officials

The first batch of the second wave of Indonesian Hajj pilgrims arrived in Madinah on Sunday (7/6/2026) at 15:45 Saudi Arabian Time (AST) after departing from Makkah on Sunday morning. The group, identified as Jakarta Batch 18 (JKG 18), was warmly received by Indonesian Hajj officials at the Grand Almadina Hotel. Pilgrims were presented with roses as a gesture of respect upon their arrival in the City of the Prophet.

Pilgrims expressed fatigue following the journey, which lasted approximately six to seven hours. “I feel tired because the journey was long, but I am grateful,” said Asmini, 5ly, one of the pilgrims met at the Grand Almadina Hotel. This arrival comes only about a week after the peak of the Hajj rituals at Arafah, Muzdalifah, and Mina (Armuzna). Despite the exhaustion, Asmini expressed satisfaction with having completed her religious duties in Makkah to the fullest. “I have performed Umrah three times. I have also done some shopping, to the point where my suitcase is almost full,” Asmini added cheerfully. She also praised the services provided by the Hajj officials in the Holy Land, noting that the hotel and food were excellent.