Indonesian Hajj Pilgrims to Depart on 22 April 2026 Amid Middle East Conflict

Indonesia’s Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Mochamad Irfan Yusuf, has emphasised that the departure of Hajj pilgrims for 2026 is still on schedule amid the ongoing war in the Middle East.

“Regarding the departure of prospective Hajj pilgrims, there has been no change to date; it remains on 21 April 2026 for pilgrims to enter the Hajj dormitory, followed by departure on 22 April,” said Irfan, quoted by Antara on Sunday (29/3).

He revealed that the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has already made preparations and is simply awaiting the departure date. This is akin to organising a wedding, where one prepares for the event by paying for the venue, catering, uniforms, and so forth.

“Everything is ready; we are just waiting for the day of departure for the prospective Hajj pilgrims,” he said.

His side is also continuously monitoring the conflict in the Middle East. The government is continually coordinating with various parties to ensure the Hajj process runs smoothly.

“Hopefully, the dispute in the Middle East can subside soon, and we hope that those in conflict there will respect the Hajj process for Muslims from around the world,” he stated.

Gus Irfan, as he is affectionately known, also wishes for the conflict to subside so that the Muslim community can perform the Hajj pilgrimage in peace.

“By respecting that, they will lower the tension of the conflict, allowing Muslims to carry out the Hajj in peace and perform their worship to the best of their ability,” he said.

The attacks carried out by the United States and Israel against Iran have led to a prolonged war. The war resulting from the actions of Zionist Israel has impacted Gulf countries such as Saudi Arabia.