Menhaj's Explanation on Hajj Implementation 2026 Amid Pilgrims' Concerns over Middle East Turmoil

Geopolitical conflicts in the Middle East are causing anxiety among Indonesian Hajj pilgrims for 2026, particularly regarding flight safety and conditions in the Holy Land. The Indonesian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah is accelerating preparations for the 1447 Hijriah or 2026 CE pilgrimage, emphasising pilgrim safety amid the ongoing turmoil. Indonesian Hajj and Umrah Minister Irfan Yusuf, known as Gus Irfan, is aware of the concerns of prospective Indonesian pilgrims departing amid this geopolitical dynamic. He stated that Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah Dahnil Anzar is currently in the Holy Land to prepare all aspects of the pilgrimage implementation. Gus Irfan noted that all preparations for this year’s departure are complete, with Hajj visa issuance for Indonesian pilgrims nearly at 100%. “I need to convey that up to today, all preparations are complete. Visa issuance is almost 100% out,” said Gus Irfan. Gus Irfan acknowledged the emergence of information about potential changes to the departure schedule due to the Middle East situation. However, he assured that as of now, the schedule for the Indonesian Hajj pilgrimage 1447 Hijriah remains on track as planned. According to the schedule, the first batch of Indonesian Hajj pilgrims is set to enter the Hajj dormitory on 21 April 2026 and begin departing for the Holy Land the following day. “We hope that on 21 April, the first batch of Hajj pilgrims will enter the Hajj dormitory, and on the 22nd, they will depart for the Holy Land,” he added. In accordance with the directive of Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, he emphasised that the Ministry of Hajj will continue to monitor the security situation to ensure pilgrim safety. One aspect of pilgrim safety and security is the logistical readiness in the Holy Land, which the government is continuously maximising.