Government Closely Monitors Umrah Travel Amid Iran-Israel Conflict
JAKARTA – The government continues to monitor umrah travel following the escalation of the Iran-Israel conflict, which has resulted in the closure of several airspaces in the Middle East.
Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi stated that coordination with airlines has been undertaken to monitor Middle Eastern airspace conditions.
“We have coordinated with and requested airlines to monitor Middle Eastern airspace conditions, including for umrah travel,” said Dudy in an official statement on Sunday (1 March 2026).
Several countries have closed their airspaces to all flights, both commercial and private. These countries include Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Kuwait, Iraq, and Syria. This closure has the potential to affect international routes, including travel by Indonesian pilgrims undertaking umrah.
The Transport Ministry has requested airlines and airport operators to provide services in accordance with established procedures for passengers affected by flight cancellations and schedule adjustments.
“Given the various flight cancellations and schedule adjustments, I have requested airlines and airport operators to handle affected passengers in accordance with applicable regulations, including the cancellation of travel documents at immigration areas, accommodation arrangements, and rescheduling of flights,” he explained.
Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak urged pilgrims to postpone their departure as a precautionary measure.
“Considering the uncertain conditions in the Middle East and escalating tensions, we urge umrah pilgrims planning to depart in the near future to postpone their travel,” said Dahnil in an official statement on Sunday (1 March 2026).
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, working together with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia, is coordinating with Saudi Arabian authorities, airlines, and umrah travel operators to ensure services for affected pilgrims.
“We continue to coordinate with Saudi Arabian authorities, airlines, and umrah travel operators to ensure that pilgrims whose return has been delayed can be accommodated in hotels and other safe and suitable locations,” he affirmed.