Indonesia proposes multi-story tents, hotel stays to ease Hajj overcrowding in Mina

Indonesian Hajj supervisory teams are exploring innovative solutions to alleviate overcrowding issues faced by Indonesian pilgrims in Mina during the peak of the Hajj pilgrimage. Marwan Dasopang, Chairman of Commission VIII of the Indonesian House of Representatives and a member of the 2026 Hajj Supervisory Team, has proposed the construction of multi-story tents.

This proposal comes as a response to the significant challenge of limited space in Mina, a tent city that hosts millions of pilgrims. Dasopang suggested that if expanding the physical area of Mina is not feasible due to land constraints, then alternative strategies like multi-story tents or other schemes that provide more spacious and humane accommodations should be seriously considered.

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We must start thinking of new formulas. If the Mina area cannot be expanded, then various options such as multi-story tents or other schemes that allow pilgrims more space and humane conditions should be considered.

In addition to the multi-story tent idea, Dasopang also put forward the concept of a 'tanazul' scheme. This arrangement would allow a portion of Indonesian pilgrims whose designated hotels are located close to Mina to forgo staying in the tents and instead return to their accommodations. He estimated that approximately 60,000 out of the 201,000 Indonesian pilgrims could potentially benefit from this arrangement, provided it is managed effectively and adheres to all relevant regulations.

Dasopang believes that implementing such schemes would significantly ease the congestion in Mina, creating more comfortable living conditions for the pilgrims who remain in the tents. The aim is to ensure a more manageable and dignified experience for all Indonesian pilgrims during this crucial phase of their Hajj journey.

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Out of around 201,000 Indonesian pilgrims, perhaps around 60,000 pilgrims can be considered for mabit (staying overnight) in hotels with good arrangements and still in accordance with applicable provisions.