Indonesia Prioritizes Pilgrim Safety in 2026 Hajj Preparations

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Indonesian government has emphasized that the safety of pilgrims remains the top priority in organizing the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage, particularly amid the ongoing conflict dynamics in the Middle East. Authorities are preparing various contingency measures to ensure the safety of Indonesian citizens planning to perform the pilgrimage.

Vice Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak, conveyed the message during a media briefing at the Presidential Palace Complex in Jakarta Tuesday, March 10, 2026. He also said the government is taking precautionary steps while closely monitoring developments in the region.

Dahnil explained that President Prabowo Subianto has instructed the government to focus primarily on the safety of Indonesian pilgrims. “The President’s message is clear: his focus is to ensure the safety of Hajj pilgrims, and that is the most important thing,” He said.

According to him, the government is currently preparing several scenarios ahead of the Hajj season scheduled to begin in April. These plans are being formulated while continuously monitoring the security situation in the Middle East.

He added that if the situation remains stable and no escalation threatens the safety of Indonesian citizens, the first group of pilgrims is expected to depart on April 22. “If there are no changes in the scenario and the conflict situation improves, then April 22 will mark the departure of the first Hajj group,” he said.

Nevertheless, Dahnil stressed that all possible scenarios must be prepared in anticipation of any changes in the regional security environment. “The President’s directive is clear that all conditions and all scenarios must be prepared,” he noted.

The government is also intensifying coordination with various ministries and institutions to ensure the smooth and secure implementation of the pilgrimage. Dahnil said discussions with the House of Representatives of the Republic of Indonesia may take place if the conflict situation shows signs of threatening Indonesian pilgrims.

Among the options being considered are selecting safer flight routes or postponing departures if necessary. “If the situation endangers the safety of our citizens, the scenario of postponement could emerge and we will discuss it with the parliament in accordance with the President’s direction,” Dahnil said.