Indonesian Hajj Pilgrims Opt to Sleep Outside Mina Tents, Here's Why

MINA — Indonesia’s Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak has found explanations regarding some Indonesian Hajj pilgrims choosing to rest outside tents during their overnight stay in Mina. The phenomenon was observed during his inspection of the pilgrims’ accommodation area on Wednesday (10 Dhu al-Hijjah), 27 May 2026.

Dahnil said the decision by some pilgrims to sleep outside tents is largely influenced by their adaptation to the temperature inside the air-conditioned tents. He noted that each pilgrim has varying tolerance levels to weather and room temperatures.

During his tour of the pilgrims’ tents, he found mattresses laid out outside. Some pilgrims chose to rest in open areas, feeling the air-conditioned tents were too cold due to maximum cooling.

‘They have different sleeping traditions within the same tent, depending on their adaptation to the climate,’ Dahnil said. ‘Some are tolerant of the cold, while others are not.’

He explained that this is common during the initial days of the Mina overnight stay as pilgrims adjust to the new environment, where the desert heat outside contrasts sharply with the cold inside air-conditioned tents.

According to Dahnil, besides adapting to temperature, pilgrims are also adjusting their sleep patterns after the energy-draining peak Hajj rituals, including the standing at Arafah, overnight stay in Muzdalifah, and stoning of the Jamarat at Jamrat al-Aqabah.

Therefore, he urged pilgrims to maintain their physical condition and choose the most comfortable resting place while ensuring safety and staying within designated areas.