Providing Elderly-Friendly Hajj Services, from Facilities to Assistance

Nur Aisiyah (70), an elderly pilgrim from Banjarnegara, expressed her joy upon being assisted by officials dedicated to elderly and disabled (landis) pilgrims at the Durat Asma Hotel in the Misfalah area, Makkah, on Monday (1/6/2026). Having waited 13 years to perform the Hajj, Aisiyah travelled alone following the passing of her husband.

Upon arriving in the Holy Land, Aisiyah shared that her emotions were mixed; while happy, she felt vulnerable due to declining vision and memory. However, she noted the presence of kind officials who provided essential guidance. The ‘landis’ officers were highly proactive in assisting her with wheelchair mobility and guiding her through daily activities, such as using the restroom.

Special assistance was also provided during the Wukuf ritual in Arafah. Due to her physical condition, she participated via the ‘safari wukuf’ service, accompanied by officers who guided her through the prayers. During her time in Arafah, she offered prayers for her children, grandchildren, and relatives, as well as for others hoping to perform the Hajj.

Aisiyah praised this year’s Hajj organisation, specifically noting the quality of accommodation and catering. Similarly, Rohaya (68), an elderly pilgrim from Bekasi, West Java, expressed her gratitude for the attentive staff who assisted with waking her for prayers, washing clothes, and transporting food.

M Ridho Prabowo, the Coordinator for Elderly and Disabled Pilgrims for Sector 9 in the Makkah Working Area, conducts regular visits to pilgrims requiring specialised care. He stated that the team works closely with sectoral health teams to assist with ‘safari lansia’ (elderly transit) and ensures that pilgrims are facilitated with wheelchairs for trips to Masjidil Haram for Umrah and daily prayers.