JAKARTA – The Ministry of Haji and Umrah of the Republic of Indonesia (Kemenhaj RI) has released an official safety advisory for all Indonesian Umrah pilgrims following the recent escalation of security tensions in the Middle East. The move comes as regional geopolitical instability begins to impact international aviation operations.
In an official statement dated February 28, 2026, the Ministry warned that the current security climate has the potential to cause widespread rescheduling, delays, and cancellations of flights to and from Saudi Arabia.
Priority on Safety and Real-Time Monitoring
The Indonesian government has instructed pilgrims to take proactive measures regarding their travel itineraries. “Ensure you check your flight status regularly before departing for the airport,” stated the Ministry in its official communiqué released on Sunday (March 1, 2026).
Beyond individual monitoring, pilgrims are urged to remain calm and avoid unverified information. The Ministry emphasized that all travelers should strictly follow the official directives issued by airlines, licensed Umrah Travel Operators (PPIU), and relevant local authorities.
Government Mitigation and Diplomatic Coordination
To ensure the safety of Indonesian citizens abroad, the Ministry is strengthening coordination with Indonesian diplomatic missions in Saudi Arabia, including the Haji Affairs Office (KUH) in Jeddah, the Consulate General (KJRI) in Jeddah, and the Embassy (KBRI) in Riyadh.
”The Ministry and Indonesian representatives in Saudi Arabia, along with local authorities, are continuously working to ensure that pilgrims remain safe and well-served throughout their stay in the Holy Land,” the advisory confirmed.
Directives for Travel Operators and Families
The government has issued specific instructions to Umrah Travel Operators (PPIU) to maintain active communication channels with Indonesian diplomatic outposts. This is intended to ensure that any disruptions on the ground are reported and managed swiftly.
For families of pilgrims back in Indonesia, the government has called for patience and calm. Families are advised to rely solely on official updates from their respective travel agencies or government channels to avoid misinformation during this sensitive period.
The Middle East situation remains fluid, with several major carriers—including Saudi Airlines and Qatar Airways—already reporting temporary flight suspensions and airspace closures. This advisory serves as a preemptive measure to safeguard Indonesian pilgrims currently performing their rituals or those scheduled for departure.
