Ten New Umrah Policies Issued by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah Amid the Middle East Crisis

Indonesia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (Kemenhaj) moved swiftly to respond to security dynamics in the Middle East affecting Umrah pilgrimages. In a cross‑sector meeting held on Tuesday, 3 March, the government and stakeholders agreed on ten strategic risk‑mitigation steps. The meeting was attended by representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Immigration and Correctional Services, the Ministry of Transportation, airlines, and the Association of Umrah Travel Organisers (PPIU). The main focus was to build synergy to ensure maximum protection for Indonesian pilgrims in a volatile year in 2026. Director General for Hajj and Umrah Arrangements, Puji Raharjo, stated that government policies are based on protecting pilgrims’ lives. He noted that the situation in the Middle East requires a rapid response to avoid material or safety harm to pilgrims. “Our thinking framework is clear: pilgrim safety is paramount. Delays are not cancellations, but risk mitigation steps. This shows the state’s presence to ensure protection, certainty, and calm for all pilgrims,” Puji Raharjo said in his official statement on Wednesday, 4 March. Previously, Kemenhaj issued an official advisory that pilgrims who have not yet departed should postpone their journey until airspace in transit areas or destinations is deemed fully conducive. Based on the coordination results, here are the ten points of mutual agreement for mitigating the impact of the Middle East situation: For those with upcoming Umrah departure schedules, it is advised to immediately contact their travel provider (PPIU) to confirm flight status and postponement options in line with the above agreement. The government will ensure cross‑sector coordination is further strengthened to safeguard safety, comfort, and certainty of service for Indonesian Umrah pilgrims amid global geopolitical dynamics. (Z-10) Member of the DPR RI Commission VIII, Hasan Basri Agus, supports the MoFA’s call to temporarily suspend Umrah travel to Saudi Arabia for pilgrims’ safety amid the Middle East geopolitical dynamics. To keep PPIUs relevant and outstanding, there is a need to innovate and digitalise—utilise technology to create more efficient and transparent services. Preventive oversight is aimed at preventing violations that could harm pilgrims. KOMNAS Haji dan Umrah appreciates the Ministry of Religious Affairs for revoking the licence of PT Naila Syafaah Wisata Mandiri (NSWM) as a PPIU due to a fraud case affecting hundreds of pilgrims. The Ministry of Religious Affairs officially revoked the NSWM licence as a PPIU as a result of fraud against hundreds of its pilgrims.