Government Prepares Pilgrimage Departure Scenarios, Including Route Through Africa

Jakarta — The Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak, has disclosed that the government is preparing several contingency scenarios to ensure the safe travel of hajj pilgrims to Saudi Arabia in 2026 amid security concerns.

These scenarios have been developed to anticipate potential flight disruptions to Saudi Arabia resulting from ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.

“We have already prepared four scenarios. Should they guarantee safe flight operations, we are prepared to alter flight routes,” Dahnil stated at the Presidential Palace Complex in Jakarta on Tuesday, 10 March 2026.

However, any changes to flight routes would require prior consultation with aviation authorities and the Saudi Arabian government.

“There are different possible routes, for instance via the southern corridor, and there is also the Africa route that has been discussed by Parliament,” Dahnil explained.

“There is also the possibility of postponement as a scenario, should the safety of our citizens be threatened. Of course, we will consult with Parliament and follow guidance from the President,” he added.

“What is clear is that, as the President stated, the priority of our Ministry of Hajj and the President’s orientation is that pilgrim safety is paramount,” he emphasised.

Dahnil stated that these scenarios would be implemented depending on whether security conditions in the Middle East guarantee safe pilgrimage travel.

“If there is no change in scenarios or if the conflict escalates downwards, and this ensures the safe departure of Indonesian citizens for hajj, then 22 April will be the departure date for the first hajj contingent,” Dahnil concluded.