Indonesian Hajj pilgrims spent Rp 4.25 trillion on purchases, mostly souvenirs

Indonesian Hajj pilgrims collectively spent an estimated Rp 4.25 trillion (approximately $270 million USD) from their personal funds during the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage, according to the Indonesian Central Statistics Agency (BPS).

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In 2026, the total personal expenditure of Hajj pilgrims is estimated to reach Rp 4.25 trillion, which truly comes from the pilgrims' own pockets.

This significant expenditure, entirely from the pilgrims' own pockets, saw a substantial portion directed towards purchasing souvenirs and gifts. BPS Head Amalia Adininggar Widyasanti reported that 46.1 percent of the total personal spending was allocated to these items. Regular Hajj pilgrims accounted for Rp 3.4 trillion of the total spending, while special Hajj pilgrims contributed Rp 857 billion.

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This shows that the activity of buying souvenirs is still an important part of the consumption pattern of pilgrims during the Hajj.

The strong emphasis on buying souvenirs highlights a deeply ingrained cultural practice among Indonesians. Widyasanti noted that the act of bringing back gifts for family and relatives is considered an essential part of the Hajj pilgrimage, making the experience feel incomplete without it. "It's also related to Indonesian culture. If you don't buy souvenirs, it feels less complete," she explained.

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Because it is also related to Indonesian culture. If you don't buy souvenirs, it feels less complete.

The majority of these purchases occurred in Saudi Arabia during the Hajj period, indicating that the spending by Indonesian pilgrims significantly contributes to the Saudi Arabian economy. "This means we also contribute to Saudi Arabia's economic growth," Widyasanti added. The findings were compiled through the 2026 Indonesian Hajj Service Satisfaction Survey (SKLHI).

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This means we also contribute to Saudi Arabia's economic growth.