Indonesia Hajj 2026: Pilgrims Return, Zamzam Water Ban, Mortality Down 50%

The first group of Indonesian hajj pilgrims, 378 people, arrived in Surabaya on June 1, marking the start of the repatriation of 17 kloter that left Saudi Arabia earlier that week. The Ministry of Haji and Umrah reminded pilgrims that carrying Zamzam water in checked or cabin luggage is prohibited; airport staff will forcibly open any bag found with the water. Instead, each pilgrim will receive an official 5‑liter gallon of Zamzam water at the Indonesian debarkation point.

The Ministry also reported a 50 percent drop in pilgrim deaths compared with the previous hajj season, crediting stricter health eligibility checks and improved medical support. The council of the Nahdlatul Ulama praised these measures, noting continued efforts to enhance health screening and support for pilgrims abroad.