Middle East Conflict: Deputy Hajj Minister Reveals Options to Postpone or Alter Hajj Flight Routes

The Ministry of Hajj is currently formulating several scenarios regarding the departure of hajj pilgrims amid escalating Middle East tensions. One such option involves changing flight routes to pass through Africa.

“If it ensures flight security, then we will prepare alternative flight routes,” Deputy Minister Dahnil Anzar told journalists at the Presidential Palace complex in Jakarta on Tuesday, 10 March 2026.

This option has also emerged from suggestions put forward by the House of Representatives. Dahnil will coordinate further with aviation authorities to discuss this possibility.

“This certainly involves consultation with aviation authorities, both from Saudi Arabia and various countries that will consider the flight routes. There are different routes available, for instance through southern routes or through Africa, which has also been proposed by the House of Representatives,” he said.

Another scenario involves postponing the departure of hajj pilgrims. This option would be implemented if conditions prove unsafe and pose a risk to pilgrims.

“Similar to the COVID-19 pandemic scenario previously, if it becomes dangerous to pilgrims—for instance, if public safety is threatened—then the scenario to postpone could well emerge if the safety of our citizens is at risk,” Dahnil explained.

Dahnil stated that his ministry will continue to discuss the hajj departure scenarios with the House of Representatives amid the Middle East conflict. He emphasised President Prabowo Subianto’s message that the primary priority is the safety of hajj pilgrims.

“We will certainly consult with the House of Representatives and align with the President’s guidance. What is clear is that, as the President stated, the orientation of our ministry and the President’s orientation is that pilgrim safety is first and foremost, so we are preparing accordingly,” he said.

Furthermore, Dahnil noted that if the escalation diminishes, the first batch of hajj pilgrims will depart on 22 April.

“If there is no change in the scenario or if the conflict escalation decreases and it ensures the safety of Indonesian citizens travelling for hajj, then 22 April will be the departure date for the first batch of hajj pilgrims,” he said.