Minister Warns Indonesians Against Risking Illegal Hajj, Punishment Could Include "Blacklist"

JAKARTA - The Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Mochamad Irfan Yusuf, has warned the public against becoming illegal Hajj pilgrims or travelling to Saudi Arabia for the Hajj pilgrimage without an official Hajj visa.

“We hope that Indonesians without a Hajj visa will not proceed with their journey,” Irfan stated during a press conference at the Palace in Jakarta on Wednesday (15/4/2026).

Irfan explained that this year, the Saudi Arabian government has further tightened the Hajj process.

Furthermore, there are Indonesians who have already managed to enter Saudi Arabia but cannot access Mecca because they do not hold a Hajj visa, only possessing a visit or work visa.

Irfan stressed that during the Hajj season, only those with a Hajj visa are permitted to enter Mecca.

“And this year, the Saudi Arabian government will be even stricter in screening or checking various points; there will certainly be inspections,” he said.

In addition, Irfan reminded of the potential fines and deportation imposed by Saudi Arabia on Indonesians who violate the rules.

“And even worse, they could be blacklisted for 10 years from re-entering Saudi Arabia. Therefore, we from the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah hope for prayers from all members of society that our Hajj pilgrim groups can proceed according to target, the Hajj runs smoothly and successfully, the pilgrims are healthy and safe, and they attain an accepted Hajj,” he added.