MAKKAH – Indonesia’s Ministry of Religious Affairs has introduced a strict new regulation for Hajj 2026, prohibiting Indonesian pilgrims from participating in city tours or long-distance religious excursions. This especially before completing the crucial Armuzna phase—Arafah, Muzdalifah, and Mina.

The policy is designed to ensure that pilgrims conserve their physical strength for the most demanding and spiritually significant stages of the pilgrimage. 

The directive specifically targets both pilgrims and Hajj guidance groups (KBIH), barring them from organizing or facilitating travel outside Makkah and Madinah before the peak Hajj rituals conclude.

According to Hajj spokesperson Ichsan Marsha, the rule is intended to keep pilgrims focused on their spiritual preparation while minimizing fatigue caused by additional travel.

"Pilgrims and guides are prohibited from arranging ziarah or city tour activities outside Madinah and Makkah before the Armuzna phase is completed," he stated (7/5/2026).

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Prioritizing Physical Readiness for Hajj 2026

The Indonesian government views this policy as a preventive health measure, especially given the intense weather conditions in Saudi Arabia. For your information temperatures in this city are expected to range between 38 and 44 degrees Celsius during the Hajj season.

Pilgrims are strongly encouraged to preserve energy, stay hydrated, and prepare physically and mentally for the strenuous rituals of wukuf and subsequent movements between holy sites. 

Officials also instructed Hajj mentors to shift their focus from tourism-related activities to strengthening pilgrims’ understanding of rituals, mental resilience, and health preparedness. Every movement of pilgrim groups must now be reported and coordinated with official Hajj authorities to ensure safety and effective supervision.

Limited Exceptions Within Makkah

While long-distance city tours are prohibited, limited local visits within Makkah remain allowed, such as educational trips to Islamic historical museums. However, these activities must still comply with official reporting requirements and avoid overexerting pilgrims before the central Hajj rites. 

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This move reflects Indonesia’s broader strategy to improve Hajj management and pilgrim protection for Hajj 2026. By restricting unnecessary travel, authorities aim to reduce health risks, improve safety oversight, and help ensure that Indonesian pilgrims can perform their religious obligations in optimal condition.

As Hajj 2026 approaches, the regulation highlights a growing emphasis on health-first pilgrimage management, balancing spiritual fulfillment with practical safety measures for one of the world’s largest religious gatherings. (*)