341 Umrah Pilgrims Stranded in Saudi Arabia Awaiting Confirmation of Return Schedule

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - The Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia (KJRI) in Jeddah announced that 341 pilgrims from various umrah travel operators remain awaiting confirmation of their return schedule amid escalating security concerns in the Middle East.

“According to the Airport Task Force data as of 7 March 2026 at 23:00 local time, a total of 341 pilgrims from several umrah travel operators are awaiting confirmation of their return schedule,” stated Muhammad Ilham Effendy, Technical Staff for Hajj Affairs at the Jeddah Office of Hajj Affairs, on Monday (9 March 2026).

For the time being, the pilgrims are being accommodated in various hotels in Jeddah and Mecca whilst awaiting confirmation of their flight tickets.

He assured that monitoring and data collection of the pilgrims’ return is being conducted comprehensively in the airport service area.

“We are also continuously gathering data on pilgrims whose return has been delayed and coordinating with travel agencies and relevant authorities to expedite the repatriation process,” said Ilham.

Meanwhile, the repatriation of pilgrims continues through several airlines, including Saudia Airlines, Garuda Indonesia, Lion Air, and IndiGo.

“Overall, to date, 17,447 Indonesian umrah pilgrims have been successfully repatriated to the country through various flights from Saudi Arabia,” Ilham said.

In addition to monitoring returns, the Jeddah Office of Hajj Affairs also provided special assistance to 33 pilgrims from one travel agency currently in Mecca.

Ilham emphasised that his office continues to coordinate with travel agencies and relevant Saudi authorities to ensure the pilgrims can be returned promptly without incurring additional costs.

“We are continuously seeking the best solutions through intensive coordination with various parties, so that pilgrims can return to the country safely and comfortably,” he said.