Hajj 2026: Ministry of Hajj Prepares Mitigation Scenarios to Address Geopolitical Situation in the Middle East

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com – Indonesia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (Kemenhaj) is preparing mitigation scenarios for the organisation of the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage to address the volatile geopolitical situation in the Middle East. Director General of Hajj and Umrah Organisational Development Puji Raharjo stated that the government’s primary focus is not only on technical preparations but also on the safety aspects for Hajj pilgrims. “Pilgrim safety remains our utmost priority. Given the escalation in the Middle East, we are preparing several comprehensive mitigation scenarios to ensure pilgrims can perform their worship safely and peacefully,” said Puji in a press statement received on Wednesday (1/4/2026). Puji had received a working visit for supervision from Committee III of the Regional Representative Council (DPD) RI at the Madinah Hajj Technical Office. “The government is refining the Tanazul scheme (early return/delay) and Murur (passing through Muzdalifah) to maintain smooth pilgrim flow,” he said. Regarding the obligation of Dam (fine/slaughter), Puji emphasised the principles of ease and freedom for pilgrims. The government only facilitates and provides conveniences so that pilgrims can carry it out according to their respective choices and beliefs. In response to these scenarios, Deputy Chairman of Committee III DPD RI, Dailami Firdaus, reminded the government that supervision at crucial points must not be lax. “We fully support the government’s steps, but field supervision, especially on the readiness of personnel and hotel comfort in Madinah, must be maintained strictly,” Dailami stressed. He ensured that preparations for transportation, hotels, catering kitchens, and health services are continuously refined before the first batch arrives. It is known that Indonesia’s first Hajj batch will depart for the Holy Land on 22 April 2026.