Hajj Officers Ready To Welcome First Cluster Pilgrims In Medina

Illustration - Indonesian Hajj Candidates prostrate thanks upon arrival in the Holy Land at the 2024 Hajj. BETWEEN/HO-MCH 2024

JAKARTA - Saudi Arabia's Hajj Organizing Officer (PPIH) for the Airport Working Area expressed full readiness to welcome the arrival of the first flying group of Indonesian pilgrims scheduled to arrive at Medina Airport on May 2, 2025.

Head of the Working Area (Daker) Abdul Basir Airport said various preparations had been carried out intensively since the last few days, especially with the authorities of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

"We have also completed technical guidance for 50 local support personnel and welcomed the arrival of around 90 officers from Indonesia," Basir said as quoted by ANTARA, Thursday, May 1.

The total number of officers deployed at Medina Airport is estimated at 140 people, including personnel on duty in arrival services, worship guidance, transportation, and protection of pilgrims.

Basir also highlighted the fast track service that will be given specifically to pilgrims from three embarkations, namely Surabaya, Solo, and Jakarta.

For Jakarta's embarkation, services are divided into two codes, namely JKG (Jakarta Garuda) and JKS (Jakarta Saudia). Other services are provided at International Terminals, Hajj Terminals, and the Zero service area.

"Fast track allows the immigration process to be carried out faster and more efficient, so that pilgrims can go directly to the bus to the hotel," he said.

On the first day, 17 groups are scheduled to arrive, three of them will land in the morning, namely JKG 1 at 06.15, LOP 1 at 07.20, and SOC 1 at 09.40.

Regarding the direction of the Minister of Religion to provide services without mistakes in the initial clusters as service barometers, Basir stated that his party would strengthen internal coordination with related parties.

"We will carry out field orientation so that new officers understand the field of duty, while experienced officers become mentors for others. Hopefully, all services will run smoothly and professionally," he said.