President Announces Historic Grant for Indonesian Hajj Village in Mecca

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia’s new "Hajj Village" in the holy city of Mecca, Saudi Arabia, was officially unveiled as a forthcoming project by President Prabowo Subianto during his visit to Malang, East Java, on Sunday, February 8, 2026. 

Addressing the Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) Centenary celebration at Gajayana Stadium, President Prabowo explained that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia granted this exclusive land right specifically to Indonesia, making it the first country in history to receive such an honor. This strategic development is intended to provide better facilities and a dedicated home for Indonesian pilgrims, serving as a landmark achievement in international relations and religious service improvement for the nation.

"This is the first time in history that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has allowed another nation to own land in the Holy City of Mecca. Ladies and gentlemen, they amended their laws specifically to pay respect to the Indonesian nation," he said, as quoted by Antara. 

President Prabowo further explained that the land in Mecca will be utilized to build a dedicated Hajj Village for Indonesian pilgrims performing the Hajj and Umrah.He noted that many other countries are now expected to follow Indonesia’s lead in establishing their own Hajj settlements in the Holy Land. 

"Because of us, many other countries will soon follow. God willing, the Indonesian Hajj Village will be the first one we establish," he said.

President Prabowo estimated that the Indonesian Hajj Village could be completed within approximately three years with adequate facilities. In the initial phase, about one thousand rooms will be built, with plans for gradual expansion to ensure decent housing and improved services for pilgrims.

The Head of State also expressed his determination to reduce the cost of performing the Hajj pilgrimage to make it more affordable for the Indonesian people. 

"Later, it is guaranteed that all pilgrims will receive decent housing and good facilities. Do not hesitate anymore, there should be no more irregularities the service will be the best, and I am determined to lower the Hajj costs for the people of Indonesia," he declared.

The Mujahadah Kubro, held on February 7–8, 2026, served as the peak of the NU Centenary celebrations organized by the East Java Provincial Board of Nahdlatul Ulama. The event was attended by an estimated 105,000 people, including 77,541 members from NU branch offices across East Java and 27,000 members of Muslimat NU who traveled in over 1,000 buses and thousands of private vehicles.

The gathering was also attended by members of the Red and White Cabinet, charismatic scholars and Kiai, and the central and regional leadership of NU. This massive turnout underscored the spiritual and national significance of the centenary milestone for the Nahdliyin community. ***