Return of Second Wave Hajj Pilgrims from Medina Begins, 48 Percent Arrive in Indonesia
The repatriation phase for Indonesian Hajj pilgrims has entered a new chapter. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (Kemenhaj) has confirmed that the return process from Saudi Arabia is proceeding smoothly, safely, and in a controlled manner, marked by the commencement of the first flights for the second wave of pilgrims from Medina to the homeland.
Entering the 57th day of Hajj operations, or the 15th day of the repatriation phase, data indicates significant progress. As of Tuesday (16/6), a total of 261 flight groups (kloter) have departed from Saudi Arabia via King Abdul Aziz International Airport in Jeddah. This figure includes 101,391 pilgrims and 1,042 staff, bringing the total number flown to 102,433 individuals.
Of that total, 253 flight groups have landed in Indonesia, comprising 98,487 pilgrims and 1,010 staff. Total arrivals at various embarkation points have now reached 99,497 people, or approximately 48 percent of the overall quota.
Meanwhile, the movement of the second wave of pilgrims from Mecca to Medina has seen 157 flight groups dispatched. This mobilisation transported 60,242 pilgrims and 628 staff, with total arrivals in Medina reaching 60,870 individuals. Separately, the number of special Hajj pilgrims who have returned to Indonesia stands at 15,802, consisting of 15,066 pilgrims and 736 staff.
Ministry of Hajj and Umrah spokesperson Maria Assegaff explained that the commencement of second wave flights from Amir Muhammad bin Abdul Aziz Airport in Medina marks an important milestone in this year’s repatriation phase. “Today marks the beginning of the return phase for second wave pilgrims from Medina to Indonesia. We are ensuring that all pilgrims can return to the homeland safely, comfortably, and in good health,” Maria stated in Mecca on Tuesday (16/6).
According to her, the Ministry, together with all Hajj officers in the Medina working area, continues to optimise accommodation, transportation, catering, health, and airport services to ensure the return process runs smoothly until the final flight group.
To facilitate the return process, the Ministry has urged all pilgrims currently in Medina to pay special attention to their travel documents, particularly passports. Pilgrims are asked to ensure their passports are stored safely and are easily accessible. “The passport is the primary document that must be safeguarded until the pilgrim arrives back in Indonesia. We urge all pilgrims to ensure their travel documents are stored properly and not left behind,” she said.
In addition to documentation, health aspects are also a focus. Pilgrims are reminded to maintain their physical condition ahead of departure by getting adequate rest, consuming nutritious food, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding excessive physical activity that could lead to fatigue.
The Ministry has also reiterated the prohibition on placing Zamzam water in either checked or cabin baggage. Zamzam water will be distributed to pilgrims upon arrival in Indonesia according to the applicable mechanism. “Compliance with this provision will help expedite the aviation security screening process, avoid baggage unpacking, and speed up the departure process at the airport,” Maria explained.