Middle East Conflict: Umrah Departure from Minangkabau Still Under Review

The Indonesian Ministry of Transportation has emphasised that the safety and security of Indonesian umrah pilgrims remain the top priority amid rising escalation of conflict in the Middle East.

“The Ministry of Transportation has stressed that what is most important right now is safety above all regarding umrah departures,” said Dony Subardono, General Manager of Angkasa Pura II at Minangkabau International Airport, on Friday (13 March 2026).

This was stated in response to the planned departure of umrah pilgrims from the Minangkabau region to Saudi Arabia on 23 March 2026. However, Angkasa Pura, together with the Ministry of Transportation, travel agencies, and relevant authorities are still discussing whether the departure can proceed.

“The 23 March 2026 departure date is still listed in the schedule, but we are still awaiting the development of the situation until 18 March 2026,” he said.

On this occasion, Subardono emphasised that the Indonesian Government continues to facilitate the evacuation of umrah pilgrims still in Saudi Arabia. This is to ensure the state’s presence for Indonesian citizens in the conflict-affected region.