Jakarta, April 8, 2026 – The Europe Today: Mochamad Irfan Yusuf announced that preparations for Indonesia’s 2026 Hajj pilgrimage are nearly complete, with the first group of pilgrims scheduled to depart for Saudi Arabia on April 22.
Speaking at a press conference in Jakarta, the minister said that logistical arrangements have been finalized, including visa issuance and catering services.
“Preparations are almost 100 percent. Visas have been issued, and arrangements such as catering have been completed,” Yusuf stated.
According to the minister, the first group of Indonesian pilgrims will enter designated Hajj dormitories on April 21 before departing the following day.
Yusuf also expressed gratitude to King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Mohammed bin Salman for their continued support in facilitating Indonesia’s Hajj arrangements.
Addressing regional developments, the minister voiced concern over ongoing tensions in the Middle East but expressed hope that the situation would not disrupt the pilgrimage.
He noted that the instability has already created logistical challenges, particularly a sharp increase in fuel costs, which have nearly doubled in some cases.
Yusuf urged all parties to work towards de-escalation to ensure that the Hajj pilgrimage proceeds smoothly.
“We hope tensions can be reduced so that Hajj rituals can be carried out solemnly worldwide,” he said.
Indonesia, home to the world’s largest Muslim population, sends one of the biggest contingents of pilgrims to Hajj each year, making smooth coordination and international cooperation essential for the successful execution of the annual pilgrimage.
