Prabowo Heads to Saudi Arabia to Discuss Indonesian Hajj Village Project

Saudi Arabia, VIVA – President Prabowo Subianto departed for Saudi Arabia on Tuesday (July 1), to discuss several key agendas related to the organization of the Hajj pilgrimage, including plans to build an Indonesian Hajj Village in Mecca.

This visit marks a strategic diplomatic step aimed at enhancing services for Indonesian pilgrims in the Holy Land.

The Presidential Aircraft PK-GRD carrying President Prabowo and his delegation took off from Halim Perdanakusuma Air Base in Jakarta at around 3:30 p.m.

During the visit, the President is scheduled to meet directly with officials of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar had arrived earlier in Jeddah on the same day to accompany the President throughout the state visit.

He confirmed that the construction of the Hajj Village is one of the main items on the agenda.

“One of the key issues is the plan to develop an Indonesian Hajj Village in Mecca,” said minister Nasaruddin Umar in Jakarta.

In addition to discussing the potential for increased Hajj quotas, the plan to build the Hajj Village is seen as a long-term government effort to improve the quality of services and facilities for Indonesian pilgrims.

The proposed village is expected to serve as a hub for accommodation, healthcare, and logistics during the Hajj season.

Following the visit to Saudi Arabia, President Prabowo is scheduled to continue his trip to Brazil to attend the BRICS Summit, which will be held in Rio de Janeiro from July 6 to 8, 2025.

At the forum, Indonesia is expected to explore opportunities to join the New Development Bank (NDB) — a multilateral financial institution established by BRICS member countries.

The President’s departure was seen off by several top government officials at Halim Air Base, including Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, State Secretary, and National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo.

Foreign Minister Sugiono and Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya are accompanying the President on the state visit.