Hajj Minister Admits Hajj 2026 Costs May Rise Due to Surge in Aviation Fuel Prices

Jakarta - The Minister of Hajj and Umrah of the Republic of Indonesia, Irfan Yusuf, known as Gus Irfan, has acknowledged the potential for an increase in the costs of organising the Hajj pilgrimage for 1447 Hijriah, or 2026, due to the surge in avtur prices.

Gus Irfan stated that although contracts with airlines have been signed, fluctuations in aircraft fuel prices are one of the main factors being monitored by the government amid the dynamic geopolitical situation in the Middle East.

“There is indeed a potential for additional costs. For example, if avtur prices have risen today, even though we contracted with airlines several months ago,” said Gus Irfan at the Kompas Tower, Jakarta, on Tuesday (31/3/2026).

However, due to the conflict in the Middle East, there is a possibility of route changes that could potentially add to flight costs.

Nevertheless, the government is still working hard to find solutions so that these additional costs do not burden Hajj pilgrims.

“It will automatically require additional costs. But InsyaAllah, we will work hard so that no additional costs are passed on to the pilgrims. We will seek other sources that we can still utilise later,” he said.

“Today, the Deputy Minister of Hajj is in Saudi Arabia to ensure all preparations are in place. Alhamdulillah, everything is proceeding well,” stated Gus Irfan.

Gus Irfan emphasised that whatever the situation, the safety and security of Hajj pilgrims is the utmost consideration in policy-making.

“As per the President’s directive, the safety and security of Hajj pilgrims is the top priority. Therefore, we are mitigating various possible scenarios that may arise,” he said.