Second Wave of Pilgrim Departures from Madinah Begins Smoothly

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The repatriation of Indonesian pilgrims from Saudi Arabia has entered a new chapter with the launch of the first flights of the second wave from Madinah to Indonesia. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah confirmed that the process continues to run smoothly, safely, and in an orderly manner as the 57th day of Hajj operations coincides with the 15th day of the return phase.

As of Tuesday, June 16, 2026, a total of 261 flight groups (kloter) had departed from King Abdul Aziz International Airport in Jeddah, carrying 101,391 pilgrims and 1,042 officers.

Combined with earlier departures, the total number of pilgrims and officers flown home has reached 102,433. Of these, 253 kloter have already arrived in Indonesia, bringing 98,487 pilgrims and 1,010 officers safely back to their embarkation points.

Movement of the second wave from Makkah to Madinah is also well underway. To date, 157 kloter--comprising 60,242 pilgrims and 628 officers--have reached Madinah, with the total number of arrivals there now standing at 60,870. Meanwhile, special hajj pilgrims returning to Indonesia have reached 15,802, including 736 officers.

The ministry's spokesperson Maria Assegaff described the inaugural flights from Amir Muhammad bin Abdul Aziz Airport in Madinah as a significant milestone in this year’s return phase.

“Today marks the beginning of the second wave of departures from Madinah to Indonesia. We are committed to ensuring every pilgrim returns home safely, comfortably, and in good health,” she said, as quoted on the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah official website.

She emphasized that services in Madinah--including accommodation, transport, meals, health facilities, and airport arrangements--are being optimized to guarantee smooth operations until the final group departs.

Pilgrims were reminded to safeguard their travel documents, particularly passports, and to maintain their health by resting adequately, eating nutritious meals, and staying hydrated.

The ministry also reiterated its directive that pilgrims should not pack zamzam water in either checked or cabin luggage. Distribution will take place in Indonesia according to established procedures. Compliance, Maria noted, will ease security checks, prevent baggage delays, and expedite airport processing.

Beyond logistics, the ministry urged pilgrims to uphold the spirit of solidarity and care for one another, especially for elderly pilgrims and those requiring assistance. Maria stressed that the values of brotherhood and compassion nurtured during the pilgrimage should continue to guide pilgrims upon their return.

In her closing remarks, she extended greetings for the Islamic New Year, Muharram 1, 1448 Hijri, reminding pilgrims that hajj is not only a ritual journey but also a transformative experience.

“True hajj is reflected in daily life--through good character, social care, and meaningful contributions to society. This is the essence of Sukses Peradaban dan Keadaban, part of the Ministry’s Tri Sukses vision,” she said.

With thousands already home and many more preparing to depart, the ministry expressed confidence that the entire 1447 H/2026 M hajj operation will conclude successfully, bringing pilgrims back safely while carrying the blessings of a mabrur hajj for Indonesia. ***