6,047 Umrah Pilgrims Arrive in Indonesia; Hajj Ministry Prioritises Maximum Protection
In response to the security situation in the Middle East following Saturday’s brutal and lethal strikes by Israel and the United States on Iran, Indonesia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (Kemenhaj) has emphasised that ensuring the safety and protection of umrah pilgrims remains its top priority. The government continues to oversee the return of pilgrims in a measured and coordinated manner.
Kemenhaj spokesman Ichsan Marsha explained that the repatriation is occurring in stages. “Between 28 February and 1 March 2026, a total of 6,047 pilgrims have safely returned to Indonesia. The government continues to oversee this process to ensure all pilgrims return in an orderly and staged manner,” Ichsan said in Jakarta on Monday (2 March).
Ichsan disclosed that on Saturday, 28 February 2026, 4,200 umrah pilgrims returned to Indonesia using 12 flights. On Sunday, 1 March 2026, a further 2,047 umrah pilgrims returned home using 5 flights.
Meanwhile, an estimated 43,363 prospective pilgrims from 439 umrah travel operators (PPIU) are scheduled to depart before the Hajj season begins on 18 April 2026.
“We ensure that every PPIU fulfils its obligations fully, from departing to providing services in Saudi Arabia through to the pilgrims’ return. This responsibility cannot be overlooked,” Ichsan emphasised.
The government has also requested that communication between umrah travel operators and pilgrims be maintained properly. “We encourage pilgrims and travel operators to understand one another. The key is ensuring all pilgrims remain safe, well served, and assured,” he added.
The government guarantees state support for pilgrims facing legal difficulties or emergency situations, whether in Saudi Arabia or transit countries. “Together with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, we continue to coordinate with Indonesian representatives abroad to ensure every pilgrim issue is handled swiftly and appropriately. We urge all pilgrims to remain calm and follow official guidance,” Ichsan concluded.
In prioritising pilgrim safety and protection, Kemenhaj has appealed to umrah pilgrims scheduled to depart in the near future to postpone their journeys until conditions in the Middle East stabilise.