Ministry of Hajj and Umrah confirms free proxy hajj for deceased and sick pilgrims

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (Kemenhaj) has deployed 585 officials to perform proxy hajj for pilgrims who passed away before the wuquf ritual or are unable to attend the peak Hajj ceremonies due to health reasons.

This measure follows 79 pilgrims identified for proxy hajj as of Saturday (23 May), with 75 having died in Medina and Mecca, and four passing away during embarkation.

Additionally, 135 pilgrims are currently hospitalised and expected unable to participate in the wuquf ritual.

Erti Herlina, Head of Worship Guidance and KBIHU, stated: “The number of pilgrims currently receiving hospital treatment stands at 135.”

The 585 designated proxies are from Saudi Arabia’s Hajj Service Personnel (PPIH), comprising worship guidance teams, healthcare staff, and elderly and disability support officers.

Erti added: “The number of officially appointed proxies is 585, though we hope this number remains unused.”

She explained that not all officials can serve as proxies, requiring specific qualifications under Islamic law, including prior completion of Hajj and knowledge of the rites.

“Proxies must understand Hajj rituals to provide comfort and assurance to the families of the deceased,” she added.

Erti confirmed the process imposes no financial burden on families, with all costs borne by the government and no charges to pilgrims or their relatives.

According to Erti, proxy hajj and wuquf procedures are governed by Ministerial Decision No. 68 on Wuquf and Proxy Hajj, ensuring pilgrims’ rights are upheld despite health complications or death before the main rituals.