INDOPOSCO.ID – The government has urged Umrah pilgrims scheduled to depart in the coming days to postpone their trips until conditions in the Middle East return to normal.
The statement was delivered by Indonesia’s Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak, on Monday (March 2, 2026). Tensions in the region have escalated following airstrikes by the United States and Israel on Iran.
He said the postponement was decided after careful consideration of safety and protection aspects for pilgrims.
“This measure reflects the government’s prudence in ensuring the security of our citizens,” he said.
He also called on Indonesian Umrah pilgrims currently in Saudi Arabia, as well as their families at home, to remain calm and avoid panic.
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah is coordinating closely with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Saudi authorities, airlines, and licensed Umrah travel operators to ensure that pilgrims facing delayed returns are properly accommodated.
“We are continuing to coordinate with Saudi authorities, airlines, and Umrah travel organizers to ensure that pilgrims whose return flights are delayed are accommodated in hotels or other safe and appropriate locations,” he added.
Regarding the organization of the 1447H/2026 Hajj pilgrimage, he emphasized that preparations remain unaffected so far. All planning stages and coordination efforts are proceeding according to schedule.
“We hope the situation will soon return to normal and that all parties will exercise restraint. The government will continue to monitor developments and take necessary measures to ensure the safety and comfort of our pilgrims,” he said. (nas)
