SINGAPORE – Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Faishal Ibrahim will lead the Singapore delegation of 900 pilgrims for this year’s haj pilgrimage.
This is the first time he is leading a haj delegation since taking on the Muslim Affairs portfolio in May 2025.
Also, for the first time, all Singaporean pilgrims will depart and return together through three direct flights to and from Saudi Arabia, in addition to receiving the Nusuk Card – an official document – before departure.
New safety measures were introduced to ensure the well-being of the pilgrims this time, according to a statement by the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) on April 25.
A total of 900 pilgrims will be travelling to the holy land, with the first group departing on May 9.
Associate Professor Faishal, who is also Senior Minister of State for Home Affairs, said he is committed to ensuring the safety of pilgrims amid global uncertainty, during a pre-departure briefing for the 2026 haj pilgrimage on April 25.
“I know that many pilgrims, including your family members, have legitimate concerns, especially with the current developments in the Middle East,” he said at Suntec Singapore Convention and Exhibition Centre.
The briefing was organised by MUIS, in collaboration with the Association of Muslim Travel Agents Singapore (AMTAS).
“We have heard these concerns clearly through our interactions with pilgrims, their families and community leaders, including Malay/Muslim Members of Parliament.
“We have taken your feedback into account, and are taking it seriously, as we strengthen our preparations for this year’s haj season,” he said.
