Ministry of Hajj and Umrah Prepares Hajj Scheme for Elderly and Disabled
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah is preparing several strategies to address the increasing number of elderly pilgrims (lansia) and those with disabilities in the organisation of the Hajj pilgrimage for 1447 H/2026 AD. This effort is being pursued through strengthening policies and providing more friendly facilities for vulnerable groups.
Director General of Hajj and Umrah Organisational Development, Puji Raharjo, stated that the Hajj service approach can no longer be uniform for all pilgrims. According to him, the needs of the elderly and people with disabilities require more specific handling.
“We can no longer view Hajj services in a general manner. There must be a specific approach based on the needs of the pilgrims, especially for the elderly and those with disabilities who require more intensive assistance,” said Puji in an official statement, quoted on Tuesday, 14 April 2026.
Puji stated that Hajj services should not only focus on operational aspects but must also ensure the quality of services that respect the dignity of every pilgrim. “The organisation of the Hajj pilgrimage is a strategic public service that must ensure all pilgrims receive equal access, including the elderly, people with disabilities, and women,” he said.
Puji noted that the proportion of elderly pilgrims and those with physical limitations continues to increase every year. In the previous Hajj season, more than 44,000 elderly pilgrims and hundreds of disabled pilgrims were recorded who required special services.
This situation has prompted the government to prepare more comprehensive services. The Ministry, he said, is beginning to integrate health data, istitha’ah status, and pilgrim conditions from the initial verification stage. This step is taken to ensure pilgrim readiness as well as to determine assistance needs.
In addition, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah is also strengthening training for Hajj officials to handle pilgrims with special needs. Supporting facilities such as wheelchairs and priority lanes are also being prepared to facilitate mobility during the pilgrimage.
On the other hand, the pilgrim data and monitoring system is being strengthened, including coordination with Saudi Arabian authorities to support service accessibility at pilgrimage sites.
Puji explained that services are provided comprehensively from arrival, accommodation, pilgrimage implementation, to return. Intensive assistance is the main focus for elderly and disabled pilgrims.
According to him, these steps are part of the transformation of national Hajj organisation towards more inclusive and just services. “Hajj is not just about the pilgrimage journey, but also a public service that must uphold humanitarian values,” said Puji.