Indonesian Hajj Pilgrims Embark on Sacred Journey: First Wave Departs Medina for Mecca

The first wave of Indonesian hajj pilgrims has left Medina, marking a significant milestone in their spiritual journey. On Friday, May 15, 2026, the last three groups of pilgrims, totaling approximately 1,278 individuals, departed from Embarkation UPG 21, KJT 20, and BTH 14. Before heading to Mecca, the pilgrims made a stop in Bir Ali to take the intention of ihram and perform sunnah prayers, a crucial ritual in the hajj pilgrimage.

The Head of the Hajj Worship Organizing Committee (PPIH) in the Medina Working Area, Khalilurrahman, confirmed that the departure process of the pilgrims on the last day went smoothly. "Today, Medina is officially empty of regular hajj pilgrims from the first wave," Khalilurrahman stated in an official statement on Saturday, May 16, 2026. He monitored the release of BTH 14 pilgrims from the hotel to Bir Ali, ensuring a seamless transition for the pilgrims.

For pilgrims who are still receiving medical treatment in hospitals or the Indonesian Hajj Health Clinic, their departure to Mecca will be delayed until they are declared fit by a doctor. Health officers will continue to accompany these pilgrims, providing necessary care and support throughout their journey. The Head of the Bir Ali Sector of PPIH, Divia Ardianto, emphasized the importance of providing assistance to elderly and disabled pilgrims during the miqat process in Bir Ali.

Officers took extra precautions to ensure the comfort and well-being of these pilgrims, providing golf carts and assistance for those who had difficulty walking to the bus. The scorching heat in Medina, with temperatures reaching 42 degrees Celsius, was also a concern for hajj officers. Pilgrims were advised to drink plenty of water, use umbrellas and masks when outdoors, and reduce non-essential activities to avoid heat exhaustion.

As the pilgrims make their way to Mecca, they will be preparing for the peak worship phase in Arafah, Muzdalifah, and Mina. Medina will receive the arrival of the second wave of hajj pilgrims after the worship series in Armuzna is completed. Meanwhile, some PPIH officers will move to Mecca to strengthen services during the peak hajj phase, ensuring a safe and successful pilgrimage for all Indonesian hajj pilgrims.

The hajj pilgrimage is a once-in-a-lifetime journey for many Muslims, and the Indonesian government has taken measures to ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens. The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) has also announced plans to monitor hotels and catering services for hajj pilgrims, to guarantee a comfortable and peaceful experience for all pilgrims.

The hajj pilgrimage is a significant event in the Islamic calendar, and it is estimated that over 2 million pilgrims from around the world will converge on Mecca this year. The Indonesian government has been working closely with the Saudi Arabian authorities to ensure a smooth and successful pilgrimage for all Indonesian hajj pilgrims.

In recent years, the Indonesian government has implemented various measures to improve the hajj pilgrimage experience for its citizens. These measures include providing additional facilities and services, such as medical care and transportation, to ensure the comfort and safety of pilgrims. The government has also established a special task force to oversee the hajj pilgrimage and address any issues that may arise.

As the first wave of Indonesian hajj pilgrims continues their journey to Mecca, they carry with them the hopes and prayers of their families and loved ones back home. The hajj pilgrimage is a time for spiritual reflection, prayer, and self-discovery, and it is an experience that will stay with these pilgrims for the rest of their lives.