Ministry of Hajj Urges Deferral of Umrah Departures, Ensures Hajj Preparations Remain On Track
The Indonesian government has urged Indonesian umrah pilgrims scheduled to depart in the coming weeks to postpone their travel following escalating security dynamics in the Middle East region. This appeal has been issued as a precautionary measure to guarantee the safety and protection of citizens.
Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah (Wamenhaj) Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak emphasised that the decision was made with careful consideration of safety concerns amid rising escalation in the region.
“Considering the unstable conditions in the Middle East and increasingly high escalation, we urge umrah pilgrims departing in the near future to defer their departures,” said Wamenhaj in Jakarta on Sunday (1 March).
Additionally, the government has requested umrah pilgrims currently in Saudi Arabia and their families in Indonesia to remain calm and not be swayed by panic. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, together with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, continues to conduct intensive coordination with Saudi Arabian authorities, airlines, and umrah travel operators (PPIU).
These coordinating efforts are being undertaken to ensure pilgrims experiencing postponed returns continue to receive safe and adequate facilities whilst awaiting confirmation of flight schedules.
“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, suitable locations,” he stated.
Separately, the government has also cautioned the public against easily believing unverified information. All parties have been urged to refer to official government sources to prevent misinformation that could potentially cause public unrest.
Regarding the organisation of the 1447 AH/2026 CE hajj pilgrimage, the government has assured that preparations are proceeding as planned and have not been impacted by the developing situation.
“We hope conditions normalise soon and all parties exercise restraint. The government will continue to monitor developments and take necessary steps to ensure the safety and comfort of pilgrims,” he added.
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has reaffirmed its commitment to continue providing updated information whilst ensuring maximum protection for all Indonesian pilgrims.