Indonesian pilgrims embark on Hajj journey under Makkah Route expansion
JAKARTA: More than 120,000 Indonesian pilgrims are benefiting from the Makkah Route initiative this year, as they embark on Hajj after the flagship Saudi program was expanded to three cities across the country.
Indonesia, the world's biggest Muslim-majority nation, sends the largest Hajj contingent of pilgrims every year to perform the spiritual journey that is one of the five pillars of Islam.
In 2025, Saudi Arabia granted Indonesia a quota of 221,000 pilgrims. With the Hajj expected to take place on June 4 and end on June 9, special pilgrimage flights from Indonesia started on May 2.
Over half of the pilgrims are departing under the pre-travel program, which was launched by the Kingdom in 2019 to help pilgrims meet all the visa, customs and health requirements at their airport of origin and save them long hours of waiting before and upon arrival in the Kingdom.
'In Indonesia, Makkah Route is implemented in three airports, Soekarno-Hatta in Jakarta, and then in the cities of Solo and Surabaya,' Mohammed Zain, director of domestic Hajj services at the Ministry of Religious Affairs, told Arab News.
The initiative was only expanded in 2024 to reach more Indonesian pilgrims in different parts of the country.
This year, a total of 122,156 Indonesian pilgrims, who are departing from the three selected cities, are benefiting from the program.
'This is very helpful in sorting all of the pilgrims' document requirements, like visa and passport, so that when the pilgrims reach Saudi Arabia, they simply head to their buses and go on their spiritual journey safely and comfortably,' Zain said.
'We hope that for Hajj next year, the Makkah Route initiative will be further expanded in Indonesia, so that we can offer more high-quality Hajj service.'
In Jakarta, the program is implemented at the new Hajj and Umrah terminal in Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, which was inaugurated by President Prabowo Subianto earlier this month.
Over 125,000 pilgrims have arrived in the Kingdom as of Tuesday.
Indonesia is among seven Muslim-majority countries — including Pakistan, Malaysia, Bangladesh, Morocco, Turkiye and Cote d'Ivoire — where Saudi Arabia is operating its Makkah Route initiative.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Saudi Gazette
15 hours ago
- Saudi Gazette
4 exhibitions at the Prophet's Mosque courtyards that bring Islamic heritage to life
Saudi Gazette report MADINAH — Several exhibitions and knowledge centers within the courtyards and halls of the Prophet's Mosque are offering enriching cultural and educational experiences to pilgrims and visitors during the Hajj season, showcasing the depth of Islamic heritage and the warm hospitality of Madinah. Among the key attractions is the Exhibition on the Architecture of the Prophet's Mosque, located in the southern square opposite exits 308 and 309. Open daily from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., the exhibition highlights the architectural evolution of the mosque through interactive displays and modern presentation techniques. Nearby, the International Exhibition of the Prophet's Biography, situated in front of exits 306 and 307, operates from 4:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. The exhibition offers visitors a contemporary, immersive experience into the life and character of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), presenting his values and message through multimedia Facility 204 in the southern square, the Rare Manuscripts Exhibition welcomes guests from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 features a remarkable collection of historical manuscripts, documents, and inscriptions that chronicle the development of Islamic calligraphy and literature across the Prophet's Mosque Library, located near Gate 10 on the western side, provides around-the-clock services to comprises several specialized sections, including rare books, manuscripts, an audio library, and various technical Rare Books and Manuscripts Section, situated inside the mosque near the Uthman Gate, is a key destination for scholars and houses more than 4,000 original manuscripts, around 60,000 digital manuscripts, 4,600 imaged manuscripts, as well as 250 handwritten Qur'ans and 200 printed Qur' section operates in two shifts: from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Leaders
19 hours ago
- Leaders
SBA Achieves Media Excellence in 1446 Hajj
The Saudi Broadcasting Authority (SBA) delivered extensive and high-quality media coverage during the 1446 Hajj season, showcasing Saudi Arabia's commitment to serving pilgrims. Through a multilingual, multi-platform approach, the SBA successfully communicated the spiritual and logistical significance of Hajj to audiences around the world. Over 850 professionals contributed to the operation, producing more than 800 hours of content across eight television and radio channels. The coverage was powered by 120 professional cameras stationed at key holy sites, supported by 25 satellite and live broadcast vehicles, and two mobile control centers. These resources enabled the production of over 700 news stories, more than 300 in-depth radio and TV reports, and the hosting of over 1,000 guests in live programs. The SBA's programming featured 55 dedicated shows focused on the Hajj experience, offering detailed insights into the rituals, sacred sites, and the services provided by various government and private sector entities. Digitally, the SBA reached new milestones—publishing over 8,900 posts across its platforms and generating more than 400 million views and impressions. With over 1 million interactions, the authority demonstrated its growing global digital influence and audience engagement. Related Topics: SBA Showcases Exceptional Media Coverage of Hajj Season 1446 A Saudi traveler travels around KSA with her husband on a motorbike SBA Explores AI Collaboration with SCAI to Advance Media Production Saudi Broadcasting Authority, Media Forum Participate in CABSAT 2025 in Dubai Short link : Post Views: 21
Arab News
a day ago
- Arab News
Where We Are Going Today: Day Day Game
If you are looking for a vibrant social hub in Riyadh, look no further than Day Day Game. This unique venue offers a diverse range of activities that cater to all types of fun-seekers. Whether you are a skater, a board game enthusiast, or someone who enjoys classic billiards, this place has something for everyone. For the latest updates, follow us on Instagram @ One of the highlights is the skating area, where you can wear your skates and glide around with friends. It is a great way to enjoy some physical activity while having a blast. If skating is not your thing, you can play board games or read a book in a cozy corner. The atmosphere is relaxed, making it perfect for unwinding with friends over a card game or two. For those who enjoy classic games, Day Day Game features billiards tables where you can challenge your friends to a friendly match. And if you are feeling adventurous, why not try your hand at crossbow shooting? It is a unique offering that sets this venue apart. Additionally, there is a fun air hockey table that is sure to ignite some competitive spirit. A particularly appealing aspect of Day Day Game is their Ladies Day every Wednesday and Sunday, providing a welcoming environment for women to enjoy all the activities without any pressure. Accessibility is another key feature; you can conveniently reach the venue via the Riyadh metro by taking the orange line. When it comes to food, Day Day Game does not disappoint. Their delicious menu offers a variety of options to refuel after a day of fun. Whether you are in the mood for snacks or something more substantial, you will find it here. The venue also serves as a social hub where you can meet new people and make lasting connections. With an open mic night, talented individuals have the opportunity to showcase their skills, adding to the vibrant atmosphere. For nostalgia lovers, there are arcade games from the 1980s that will take you back in time. And if you are in the mood for something more classic, there is bowling available too. Day Day Game is an exciting destination with endless options for entertainment. Personally, I love going there to skate, but with so many activities available, you will likely find yourself trying something new each visit. Whether you are with friends or looking to meet new people, this venue promises a memorable experience in Riyadh.
