Saudi Arabia Assures Safety of Indonesian Umrah Pilgrims Amid Regional Tensions

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Despite escalating conflict in parts of the Middle East, Saudi Arabia has confirmed that Indonesian pilgrims can continue performing umrah safely in the kingdom’s main religious cities.

Indonesian Minister of Hajj and Umrah Mochamad Irfan Yusuf reported that conditions in Jeddah, Makkah, and Madinah remain secure and conducive for worship.

“The security situation in Saudi Arabia, particularly in Jeddah, Makkah, and Madinah, is reported to be safe and stable. Pilgrims in these areas can perform their worship peacefully without significant disruption,” Irfan said during a hearing with Commission VIII of the House of Representatives in Jakarta on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

He acknowledged, however, that the broader regional conflict has affected international air travel. Several countries have closed their airspace, disrupting transit routes commonly used for flights to and from the Gulf. “The closure of airspace has caused interruptions to a number of international flights, especially those relying on transit through Middle Eastern countries,” Irfan explained.

As a result, both departures and returns for Indonesian pilgrims have faced delays. Official data as of March 11 recorded 50,374 Indonesian pilgrims still in Saudi Arabia, with around 14,115 potentially experiencing postponed journeys home due to flight disruptions.

To address the situation, Irfan said the government has summoned all Umrah Travel Organizers (PPIU) to ensure proper handling of affected pilgrims. Coordination with Saudi authorities and Indonesian representatives on the ground continues to guarantee that worship activities remain undisturbed while logistical challenges are managed.

This reassurance underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to maintaining stability in its holy cities, even as regional tensions complicate travel across the wider Middle East. ***

https://www.antaranews.com/berita/5467767/menhaj-pemerintah-saudi-pastikan-jamaah-tetap-bisa-umrah-dengan-aman