PPIH Ensures Readiness to Welcome First Batch of Indonesian Hajj Pilgrims in Madinah

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Saudi Arabian Hajj Organising Officers (PPIH) have ensured that all services are ready ahead of the arrival of the first batch of Indonesian prospective Hajj pilgrims, scheduled to land in Madinah on 22 April 2026.

Director of Overseas Hajj Services and Deputy Chairman II of PPIH Saudi Arabia, Budi Agung Nugroho, stated that the service readiness covers all major aspects, from accommodation and meals to transportation.

According to Budi, this year’s embarkation at Jakarta-Pondok Gede (JKG) will again use the fast-track scheme, allowing for a quicker immigration process at the airport.

The first batch is scheduled to arrive at Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madinah (AMAA) at 06.50 Saudi Arabia Time (WAS).

“With the fast-track scheme, the airport welcome will be brief. The official welcome will take place when the pilgrims arrive at the hotel in Madinah,” he said.

He added that the Indonesian Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, along with the Consul General of Indonesia, is planned to attend this inaugural welcome.

Budi explained that the movement of pilgrims from the airport to the buses is arranged with special attention. This is done through cooperation with the syarikah party to ensure the flow of movement proceeds orderly and organised.

“The movement of pilgrims is arranged by squad and group so that from the airport to the hotel room distribution, they remain in one group. This is important to maintain order,” said Budi.

For baggage handling, special services have been prepared to ensure pilgrims’ belongings arrive safely at the hotel.

During their stay in Madinah, the pilgrims will perform the Arbain worship for 8 to 9 days. The Ministry of Religious Affairs also guarantees meal services with 27 meals during that period.

“After that, the pilgrims will be dispatched to Makkah to participate in the peak series of Hajj worship,” he said.