Saudi Government Ensures Safe Umrah Worship Amid Middle East Tensions

Jakarta — Indonesia’s Minister of Hajj and Umrah (Menhaj) Mochamad Irfan Yusuf reported that the Saudi Arabian government is ensuring pilgrims can continue performing umrah worship safely despite escalating conflict in the Middle East region.

“Security conditions in Saudi Arabian territory, particularly in Jeddah, Mecca, and Medina, are reported to be safe and conducive. Umrah pilgrims currently in these areas are able to carry out their worship peacefully and without significant disruption,” said Menhaj Mochamad Irfan Yusuf during a parliamentary hearing with Commission VIII in Jakarta on Wednesday.

He explained that the escalation of conflict in the Middle East has impacted regional security stability and international air transport activities. Several countries in the region have closed their airspace, particularly along routes that have been the main pathways for international flights heading towards the Gulf region.

As a result, both the departure and return processes for umrah pilgrims, especially those using connecting flights, have experienced disruptions.

Based on reports received until 11 March 2026, approximately 50,374 umrah pilgrims remain in Saudi Arabia. Of this number, around 14,115 face potential delays in their return due to flight disruptions.

“We have summoned all the relevant pilgrim travel organisers to ensure proper handling of pilgrims,” said Irfan.