The 2025 AD/1446 AH Hajj pilgrimage is approaching. Before fulfilling this fifth pillar of Islam, prospective Hajj pilgrims are required to meet the health istita'ah (capability) requirements before settling the Hajj travel costs (Bipih).

This is in accordance with the Minister of Religious Affairs' Decree (KMA) Number 142 of 2025 on Technical Guidelines for Filling Regular Hajj Quotas and the Payment of Regular Bipih Settlement, which mandates that each pilgrim meet the health istita'ah requirements first before making the payment.

There are three important aspects of health istita'ah, as outlined in the 2018 Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) Fatwa on Health Istita'ah for Hajj:

First, being physically and mentally capable, meaning the pilgrim is declared healthy and able to undertake the journey and perform the series of Hajj rituals.

Second, having a valid excuse (udzur syar’i), which refers to a health condition that prevents the pilgrim from performing Hajj, so the pilgrimage can be postponed or substituted (replaced by another person).

Third, the authority of the government (ulil amri) to deny permission for the pilgrim to depart for Hajj due to medical and sharia considerations.

In performing the Hajj pilgrimage, excellent physical and mental conditions are required. For those who have received their pilgrimage number and are called to perform Hajj but suffer from serious or chronic health conditions, such as debilitating long-term diseases or pregnancy, it is recommended to delay or substitute their Hajj.

The process of meeting the health istita'ah requirements is carried out through a thorough medical examination, including physical, cognitive, mental, and daily activity ability assessments.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has also set health regulations and standards for pilgrims wishing to enter its territory during the 1446 AH Hajj season. Pilgrims are required to be free of medical conditions that significantly reduce their physical capabilities.

Some health conditions that do not meet the criteria include:

1. Kidney failure requiring hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis.

2. Heart disease with symptoms at rest or during light activity.

3. Chronic lung disease requiring intermittent or continuous oxygen.

4. Liver cirrhosis with signs of organ failure.

5. Neurological or psychological disorders causing severe motor disabilities or cognitive impairment.

6. Dementia in the elderly.

7. Pregnancy.

8. Active contagious diseases.

9. Cancer undergoing chemotherapy.