DPR Warns of Potential Hajj Cost Increase in 2027

The cost of the Hajj pilgrimage for Indonesian pilgrims in 2027 is expected to rise, a sentiment echoed by Marwan, a member of the House of Representatives (DPR) Commission VIII. He indicated that calculations for the operational needs of the Hajj organizers suggest an increase in the overall expense.

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If we calculate the numbers for the needs that we must fulfill as organizers of the Hajj pilgrimage, it feels like the cost of Hajj will increase.

Marwan stated that the DPR, in collaboration with the Ministry of Religious Affairs (Kemenhaj), is actively exploring various schemes to mitigate this potential cost hike. The focus is on identifying components of the Hajj expenses that can be made more efficient. While airfare costs are constrained by airline regulations, accommodation services also require evaluation to ensure quality is maintained without escalating prices.

Beyond financial considerations, Marwan highlighted the persistent challenge of limited capacity in Mina, a crucial area for pilgrims during Hajj. He noted that while quotas for pilgrims may increase, the physical space in Mina does not expand. The Tanazul scheme, which involves some pilgrims staying in alternative accommodations, has been implemented as a way to ease congestion in Mina. However, Marwan stressed the need for a long-term, optimally managed approach to this issue to prevent recurring problems.

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The challenge for us is that Mina never expands. We hope for an increased quota, but the area (Mina) never increases.

Minister of Religious Affairs Mochamad Irfan Yusuf previously called for the 2026 Hajj Service Evaluation National Work Meeting to be an open forum for identifying shortcomings in Hajj organization. He emphasized that uncovering these issues transparently is essential for improving future services, not for assigning blame. The Minister also pointed to health services for pilgrims as an area needing serious attention, noting that while the death rate was reduced by 25% compared to previous years, it remains a concern.

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This Hajj Service Evaluation National Work Meeting in 2026 is certainly an opportunity, a chance for us to identify various shortcomings that have been and are being carried out, to become part of improving Hajj services in the future.