RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Indonesia's goverment expressed its appreciation for the assistance provided by the United Arab Emirates Government through the Zayed Foundation to Indonesian Hajj pilgrims in 1447 AH/2026 AD. The assistance, worth approximately USD 190,000 or IDR 3.3 billion, was symbolically handed over during an official ceremony at the Ministry of Hajj Building, MH Thamrin, Jakarta, on Tuesday, May 12, 2026.

This assistance from the Zayed Foundation is intended to support the departure and smooth running of 162 selected Indonesian Hajj pilgrims. This support demonstrates the UAE Government's solidarity and concern for Muslims in Indonesia.

The Minister of Hajj and Umrah of the Republic of Indonesia, Mochamad Irfan, expressed his highest appreciation to the United Arab Emirates Government for their tangible support. He stated that this assistance is not only financial support but also a reflection of the strong Islamic brotherhood and good relations between the two countries.

"On behalf of all Indonesian Hajj pilgrims, we express our deepest appreciation and gratitude to the Government and people of the United Arab Emirates. May Allah grant the UAE continued goodness, blessings, and progress," he said.

In the 2026 Hajj season, 221,000 Indonesian pilgrims are scheduled to depart for the Holy Land. Among them are pilgrims from various social and economic backgrounds who have long awaited and strived to fulfill the fifth pillar of Islam.

Meanwhile, UAE Ambassador, H.E. Abdulla Salem Obaid Aldhaheri, expressed his respect and appreciation for this collaboration. He hoped this assistance would provide direct benefits to pilgrims and lay the foundation for expanding collaboration between the UAE and Indonesia in the future.

"We recognize that Indonesia is a large country. Our contribution may be small, but we hope it will have a significant impact on the future relationship between the UAE and Indonesia," he said.

He added that the UAE government hopes that cooperation with the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah can continue to expand, not only in the field of Hajj management, but also through the Hajj Fund and various other strategic initiatives. This aid handover ceremony is expected to be a significant momentum in strengthening bilateral relations between Indonesia and the United Arab Emirates, while also reinforcing our shared commitment to providing the best possible service to the guests of Allah.

"Whatever we do, we consider it a symbolic yet meaningful step. We hope that in the future there will be more opportunities for collaboration between the UAE and the Indonesian Ministry of Hajj," he said.

Both parties expressed their commitment to continuing to expand innovative and productive cooperation, particularly in supporting improved services for Indonesian Hajj pilgrims.