Pre-Hajj Surge: Riyal Exchanges at BSI Jump 76%
Ahead of the hajj departure, the need for pocket money in Saudi Arabian currency has begun to increase. This is reflected in the surge of riyal exchange transactions at PT Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI), which rose 76% during the April-May 2026 period compared to the previous month.
The increase follows the movements of prospective hajj pilgrims who are starting to prepare for their departure, including arranging living expenses during their stay in the Holy Land. On 22 April, the first batch of Indonesian hajj pilgrims was dispatched, marking the start of this year’s hajj operations with a total of around 221,000 pilgrims from various embarkation points.
BSI has expanded services at departure points. The bank has prepared 22 booths at 16 main embarkation points and six intermediate embarkation points. Available services include riyal exchanges, hajj banking consultations, and supporting facilities such as massage machines at some locations.
In terms of fund management, BSI remains the main player. Around 83% of prospective Indonesian hajj pilgrims are recorded as using hajj savings services at this bank. The total reaches more than 7.2 million accounts, with nearly half already on the departure waiting list.
BSI Deputy Director Bob T Ananta said preparations for services are carried out from before departure until the pilgrims’ return. “We continue to optimise hajj services ahead of the hajj season until the return of Indonesian hajj pilgrims upon their arrival back in the homeland,” he stated on Wednesday (29/4/2026).
In addition to currency exchange, BSI is also encouraging pilgrims to switch to non-cash transactions. Prepared facilities include call centre services, international debit cards, and digital transaction applications that can be used in Saudi Arabia.
Bob reminded that using cashless transactions can reduce the risk of carrying large amounts of cash. “We urge pilgrims to utilise non-cash transactions for greater safety and comfort during worship,” he said.