Indonesia praises Saudi management of 2026 Hajj Arafah ceremony

Indonesian Deputy Speaker Lia Istifhama lauded the organization of the 2026 Hajj, noting that the wukuf at Arafah proceeded smoothly with reduced crowding thanks to Saudi Arabia’s crackdown on illegal pilgrims. She highlighted effective transport from hotels, well‑maintained tents, and timely distribution of Indonesian‑style meals, while suggesting further improvements to food‑hygiene education.

Religious scholars in Indonesia also emphasized the spiritual significance of the Arafah rites, comparing the merit of a completed Hajj to the reward of jihad and underscoring its importance for those unable to serve in armed conflict.