Minister Assures Hajj Departure for 2026 Will Proceed on Schedule

Surabaya (ANTARA) - Minister of Hajj and Umrah Mochamad Irfan Yusuf has assured that the schedule for the Hajj pilgrimage departure to the Holy Land in 2026 remains on track despite geopolitical tensions between the United States and Iran. “Up to now, it is still according to schedule. Hopefully, until the departure on 22 April, there will be no changes,” he said after attending the Return to Work Together event organised by the Hajj Financial Management Agency (BPKH) 2026 in Surabaya, East Java, on Tuesday. He explained that there have been no disruptions to the preparations or the departure schedule for Indonesian prospective pilgrims so far. According to him, all aspects of services, from accommodation to transportation, have been well prepared. From the funding side, he said, it is also ready to support as needed. “We see no suspension of flights. Direct flights to Saudi Arabia are still available. Hopefully, it remains safe,” he stated. The Indonesian government is also continuously engaging in intensive communication with the Saudi Ministry of Hajj to monitor the latest developments. “We are always communicating with the Saudi Ministry of Hajj team, and up to today, they have stated there are no changes to the schedule,” he said. In addition, he noted, the quota for elderly pilgrims still adheres to the applicable provisions, namely five percent of the total Hajj quota. He also assured that Umrah pilgrimage operations will proceed safely, with strict oversight on ensuring the return of pilgrims. His side has already gathered organisers to ensure that pilgrims who depart also return safely. The government hopes the situation remains conducive so that the entire series of Hajj 2026 arrangements can run smoothly.