National Hajj Commission Calls on Government to Establish Temporary Shelter for Umrah Pilgrims
The National Hajj Commission has urged the government to prepare temporary shelter facilities for Indonesian umrah pilgrims stranded in the Middle East following escalation of conflict in the region. Commission Chairman Mustolih Siradj stated that airport closures and flight cancellations following US–Israeli attacks on Iran have left thousands of pilgrims unable to return home immediately.
According to data from the Computerised System for Umrah and Special Hajj Management (SISKOPATUH), approximately 58,873 Indonesian umrah pilgrims currently remain in Saudi Arabia. “If flight routes are not reopened soon, the government must prepare emergency measures, including providing safe and adequate temporary shelter facilities for pilgrims,” Mustolih said in a written statement on Monday, 2 March 2026.
The National Hajj Commission views such measures as a demonstration of state presence in protecting its citizens during a conflict situation whose duration cannot be predicted. The Commission expects the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah to coordinate intensively with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, airlines, Umrah Travel Organisers (PPIU), hajj and umrah associations, and Saudi Arabian authorities.
Beyond temporary shelter, the National Hajj Commission also advocates for the establishment of an information centre to ensure pilgrims receive confirmation regarding return schedules, accommodation, and logistical support.
Mustolih highlighted the varying financial capacity of pilgrims. Some travelled with limited funds according to scheduled itineraries. Delayed returns risk increasing accommodation and meal costs, particularly for elderly or ill pilgrims. “Not all pilgrims have financial reserves to stay longer, especially those who travelled independently without using travel agencies,” he said.
The National Hajj Commission also advised prospective pilgrims not yet departed to postpone travel until the regional situation becomes truly conducive. Meanwhile, pilgrims currently in Saudi Arabia have been asked to follow official government directives.
Umrah during Ramadan represents a period of increased pilgrims from various countries. This year is estimated to see approximately five million people performing umrah in the Holy Land. The conflict escalation is viewed as impacting not only pilgrims but also travel agencies, airlines, and supporting sectors.
The National Hajj Commission expects the government to quickly prepare emergency schemes to ensure thousands of stranded Indonesian pilgrims remain safe and protected until the situation normalises.