Indonesian Hajj Pilgrims to Depart for Arafah Tomorrow Ahead of Peak Rituals

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com — All Indonesian Hajj pilgrims will begin their journey to Arafah on Monday, 25 May 2026. The movement will occur in phases before entering the peak Hajj rituals at Arafah, Muzdalifah, and Mina (Armuzna).

“On the following day, 8 Dhu al-Hijjah (Monday, 25 May 2026), Indonesian Hajj pilgrims will start moving from their hotels to Arafah in phases,” said Maria Assegaf, spokesperson for the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (Kemenhaj), during a virtual press conference in Jakarta on Sunday (24 May 2026).

“We urge all pilgrims to adhere to schedules, follow instructions from cluster officers, sector officers, religious guides, and all on-ground service personnel,” Maria said.

She stressed that pilgrims should not move independently or ahead of schedule, and must stay with their assigned groups. The Armuzna phase is the most critical, crowded, and requires physical, mental preparedness, and discipline from all pilgrims.

She also called on all pilgrims and officers to show mutual care and attention.

“If you see a pilgrim walking alone, looking confused, exhausted, or separated from their group, immediately greet them and check their condition. If they need assistance, escort them to the nearest officer, service post, or report to sector and cluster officers,” Maria said.

Maria urged that pilgrims should not be left to walk alone without supervision, especially the elderly, disabled, and those with specific health conditions.

Such vigilance is crucial to prevent pilgrims from getting lost, straying, or becoming separated from their groups.

“During the Armuzna phase, pilgrim safety is a shared responsibility,” Maria said.

“We aim to ensure all pilgrims receive orderly, safe, and comfortable services, allowing them to perform the peak Hajj rituals with devotion,” she concluded.