Middle East Tensions Rising: Deputy Minister of Hajj Advises Umrah Pilgrims to Postpone Departure
Indonesia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has issued an advisory to prospective umrah pilgrims scheduled to depart in the coming days to postpone their journey to the Holy Land. The government has taken this step following the increasingly dynamic and unstable security situation in the Middle East region.
Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak emphasised that the advisory represents a precautionary measure by the government to protect the safety of Indonesian citizens.
“Considering the uncertain conditions in the Middle East and escalating tensions, we advise umrah pilgrims scheduled to depart in the near future to postpone their departure,” stated the Deputy Minister in Jakarta on Sunday, 1 March 2026.
Pilgrims Urged to Remain Calm
In addition to advising postponement, the government has also requested umrah pilgrims currently in Saudi Arabia and their families in Indonesia to remain calm and not to panic over the developing situation.
The government has confirmed that it is maintaining intensive coordination with Saudi Arabian authorities, airlines, and Umrah Travel Operators (PPIU) to ensure that pilgrims affected by the postponement are properly accommodated.
“We continue to coordinate with Saudi Arabian authorities, airlines, and PPIU so that pilgrims whose returns are delayed can be accommodated in hotels and other safe and suitable facilities,” he said.
Advisory to Avoid Unverified Information
The government has also reminded the public not to be easily influenced by information that has not been verified for accuracy. Citizens are urged to refer to official government sources to avoid confusion and misinformation that could cause public unrest.
This step has been taken as part of an effort to maintain calm among pilgrims and their families in Indonesia amid the dynamic regional situation.
1447 H/2026 M Hajj Preparation Continues
Regarding the implementation of the 1447 H/2026 M hajj pilgrimage, the government has confirmed that there has been no impact on the ongoing preparation phases to date. All planning and coordination processes continue according to schedule.
“We hope that conditions return to normal soon. The government will continue to monitor developments and take necessary steps for the safety and comfort of pilgrims,” said the Deputy Minister.
The government has reaffirmed its commitment to continue prioritising the security, safety, and comfort of pilgrims in every policy decision, whilst carefully monitoring regional developments.