Rising Middle East Tensions Cast Shadow Over Indonesian Umrah Pilgrims

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The escalating confrontation between the United States and Israel against Iran has begun to cast uncertainty over Indonesian umrah travel sector, according to the Central Board of the Muslim Association of Indonesian Hajj and Umrah Organizers Indonesia (AMPHURI).

AMPHURI Chairman Firman M. Nur explained that the closure of several airspaces and adjustments to airline schedules due to regional tensions have disrupted the departure and return of Indonesian pilgrims.

“The intensifying conflict has forced a number of countries to shut their airspace, prompting airlines to reroute, delay, or even suspend flights,” Firman said during an interactive dialogue on umrah mitigation in Jakarta on Thursday, March 5, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

While Saudi Arabia has assured that conditions within its territory remain safe and under control, Firman emphasized that vigilance is still being applied in line with international security standards.

He also highlighted the importance of legal clarity regarding state responsibility, as outlined in Law No. 14/2025 on the Organization of Hajj and Umrah, particularly in protecting pilgrims and umrah staff.

Firman pointed to Article 96 (5), which guarantees legal protection, security, and basic services for pilgrims -- except for independent umrah travelers. He warned that independent pilgrims face greater risks, including unilateral cancellations by service providers, airlines, or hotels, without state protection.

“Their fate is uncertain when cancellations occur, as they are clearly excluded from state safeguards,” he said, noting that insurance claims for life, health, or travel are often rejected under force majeure clauses.

AMPHURI Secretary-General Zaky Zakariya Anshary expressed hope that tensions in the Middle East would ease soon, allowing umrah travel to return to normal, especially with the 1447H/2026 hajj season approaching.

Beyond immediate travel concerns, AMPHURI also raised its request for a judicial review of Law No. 14/2025 at the Constitutional Court. Legal counsel Firman Adi Candra described the move as a “constitutional jihad” aimed at strengthening governance of umrah services.

“This is not intended to oppose the state, nor to restrict citizens’ rights to perform umrah independently, and it is not driven by industrial or economic interests,” he stressed. ***