Deputy Minister Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak told reporters in Jakarta on Saturday that frequent policy shifts in Saudi Arabia directly affect Indonesian pilgrims, making a legal framework for independent travel necessary.
The law sparked mixed reactions from travel associations, with some warning it could threaten licensed operators.
Dahnil said the regulation instead provides legal certainty for a practice that has long existed without formal oversight.
Article 86 paragraph 1(b) confirms that citizens can perform umrah independently, officially recognizing and facilitating the practice under the law.
Article 87A lists requirements: pilgrims must be Muslim, hold a passport valid for at least six months, have round-trip tickets to Saudi Arabia, a health certificate, a visa, and proof of a purchased service package registered in the ministry’s information system.
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The system is linked to Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and the Nusuk platform, ensuring data security and protecting pilgrims. The law also guarantees independent pilgrims receive services as agreed and allows them to report any deficiencies to the minister.
The government imposed strict penalties for misuse. Under Article 122, individuals or companies organizing unauthorized umrah trips or sending pilgrims illegally face up to six years in prison and fines of up to Rp2 billion. Misappropriation of pilgrims’ deposits can result in up to eight years’ imprisonment and similar fines.
Dahnil stressed the independent umrah scheme is strictly personal and cannot be used to organize collective pilgrimages outside the official system. Every participant must register directly in the ministry’s system, ensuring administrative and legal protection.
The law gives Indonesians a safe, regulated, and flexible option to perform umrah while maintaining accountability, transparency, and compliance with evolving Saudi regulations.
The government remains committed to maintaining a balance between religious freedom and pilgrim protection amid the ever-changing policies of Saudi Arabia.
Related news: Indonesia plans hajj village to cut pilgrimage costs by 2028
Translator: Primayanti
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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