Prasasti highlights potential impact of Iran-US conflict on Umrah and Hajj activities

Jakarta — Indonesia’s independent think tank Prasasti Center for Policy Studies has highlighted the potential impact of the Iran-United States and Israel conflict on Umrah and Hajj activities should global uncertainty persist longer and affect international mobility.

“If restrictions or decreased activity occur over an extended period, the impact will not only be felt by the travel sector but could also create spillover effects on domestic economic growth,” said Piter Abdullah, Policy and Program Director at Prasasti, in a statement released in Jakarta on Monday.

These activities have widespread economic linkages within the country, ranging from travel services and hospitality to supporting sectors. Several flights to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia have already experienced cancellations.

In this situation, Piter emphasised the importance of government preparedness in formulating various policy scenarios.

Overall, Prasasti assessed that this period of global uncertainty demands adaptive, measured, and fiscally prudent policies.

“The balance between maintaining public purchasing power and preserving fiscal health is key to ensuring national economic stability remains intact,” Piter said.

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has advised prospective pilgrims scheduled to depart for the Holy Land in the near future to postpone their journeys in light of the increasingly dynamic and uncertain security situation in the Middle East region.

The government has also requested Umrah pilgrims currently in Saudi Arabia and their families in the country to remain calm and not panic.

The government continues to coordinate with Saudi Arabian authorities, airlines, and Umrah Travel Operators (PPIU) to ensure that pilgrims experiencing delayed returns are properly managed.