Indonesia Ensures Smooth Return of Umrah Pilgrims Amid Flight Challenges

RRI.CO.ID, Jeddah - As thousands of Indonesian pilgrims conclude their umrah journey, authorities are intensifying oversight to ensure a safe and orderly return. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has been closely supervising departures at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah and Amir Muhammad bin Abdulaziz Airport in Madinah.

By March 12, 2026, a total of 24,022 Indonesian pilgrims had flown back to the country on various international flights. Field reports show that between March 10 and 12 alone, officials supervised the departure of 3,441 pilgrims from the two Saudi airports.

“Our staff continue to monitor the process on the ground and coordinate with airlines and travel organizers to ensure any issues faced by pilgrims are quickly resolved,” Technical Staff M. Ilham Effendy at the Hajj Office in Jeddah said on Thursday, March 12, 2026, as quoted on the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah official website.

Among the challenges encountered were flight cancellations that required schedule adjustments. However, through coordination between officials, airlines, and travel agencies, affected pilgrims were able to continue their journey safely.

Ilham emphasized that the ministry’s Hajj Office in Jeddah remains committed to intensive monitoring and coordination. “Thanks to joint efforts with airlines, airport authorities, and umrah organizers, pilgrims who experienced delays were eventually able to return home safely,” he explained.

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has pledged to maintain strict supervision and assistance throughout the return process, ensuring that Indonesian pilgrims travel back in safe, orderly, and comfortable conditions. ***