Jakarta (VNA) - Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has announced plans to visit Saudi Arabia to discuss the establishment of a dedicated area for Indonesian Hajj pilgrims near Masjid al-Haram, the Great Mosque of Mecca,
Speaking at the recent inauguration of the Special Terminal for Hajj and Umrah at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Tangerang, Banten, President Prabowo stated that he has requested time to meet with the government and leaders of Saudi Arabia, and they intend to build an Indonesian village in Mecca.
The President expressed his hope that the upcoming visit will expedite the realisation of the plan. He noted the idea had previously received a positive response from Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman during their last meeting.
Prabowo believes that having a dedicated area close to the Grand Mosque would greatly benefit Indonesian pilgrims, particularly the elderly, by facilitating easier access to religious sites. He emphasised that with approval from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Indonesia could have its own area operating efficiently.
He highlighted that Indonesia is among the countries with the largest number of Hajj and Umrah pilgrims to Saudi Arabia, with annual figures exceeding two million. During peak periods, the number can reach up to 12,000 pilgrims per day./.