Government Prepares Mitigation Scenarios for 2026 Hajj Pilgrimage Amid Middle East Conflict
In response to conflicts in the Middle East, the Indonesian government is planning to cancel or suspend the departure of Indonesian hajj pilgrims during the 2026 hajj season as one mitigation option should security conditions in the region pose a threat to pilgrim safety.
The Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Mochamad Irfan Yusuf, stated that the government is preparing several mitigation scenarios to address potential regional crises that could affect the conduct of the hajj pilgrimage. “Pilgrim safety is our top priority. Every decision will be made based on security intelligence data and coordination with various parties,” Irfan said during a working meeting with Commission VIII of the Indonesian House of Representatives on Wednesday, 11 March 2026.
According to the minister, one scenario being prepared is the possibility that the Saudi Arabian government maintains the hajj pilgrimage, but Indonesia decides not to dispatch pilgrims due to security considerations.
Funds already deposited for accommodation, food, transportation, and other services are expected to be transferred for the conduct of the pilgrimage in the following year without incurring penalties. “We will endeavour to ensure that costs already paid can be used for the 2027 hajj pilgrimage,” Irfan stated.
However, the government also anticipates potential rejection from service providers in Saudi Arabia regarding the contract transfer scheme.
In addition to diplomatic efforts with the Saudi Arabian government, the government is also preparing financial mitigation schemes for hajj pilgrims. Pilgrims will be given two options regarding payment of the Hajj Travel Cost (BPIH).
First, pilgrims can withdraw the payment without losing the opportunity to depart during the next hajj season. This scheme is designed to ensure that pilgrims are not disadvantaged if hajj departure must be postponed.
Beyond addressing financial issues, the government is also preparing religious communication measures to address potential controversy in society should the hajj be cancelled.