Jakarta – Indonesia’s Ministry of Religious Affairs has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding citizens from illicit Hajj pilgrimage schemes, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s increasingly stringent regulations for pilgrims. The ministry emphasized that only a specific Hajj visa is recognized by Saudi authorities for performing the sacred journey.
Puji Raharjo, the Director General of Hajj and Umrah Implementation, made these remarks following a meeting with Indonesian Consul General in Jeddah, Yusron B. Ambary, at the consulate office. Both officials agreed to escalate public awareness campaigns designed to deter Indonesians from utilizing unofficial travel arrangements.
Consul General Ambary echoed the warning, urging prospective pilgrims to adhere strictly to all official requirements and reject offers that promise quick or expedited departures. He clarified that visit visas, tourist visas, or any other documents outside the official Hajj provisions are not valid for the pilgrimage.
This caution comes in the wake of repeated incidents where Indonesian citizens have been apprehended by Saudi authorities for attempting to perform Hajj using invalid or fraudulent documentation. Ambary cautioned that violators could face severe penalties, including substantial fines, deportation, and a potential ban of up to ten years from re-entering Saudi Arabia.
Furthermore, officials warned against deceptive travel packages, particularly those marketing “Dakhili Hajj,” a term exclusively applicable to Saudi citizens or expatriates holding valid long-term residence permits within the Kingdom. Pilgrims are advised to prioritize verifying the authenticity of their Hajj visa and the legal standing of tour operators, rather than focusing on package names.
Authorities highlighted that illegal schemes often exploit the limited Hajj quotas and the high demand among aspiring pilgrims. The public is strongly encouraged to engage only with licensed travel agencies and to cross-reference all information through official government channels.
The Ministry of Religious Affairs affirmed its continued collaboration with Indonesian diplomatic representatives in Saudi Arabia to enhance oversight. Officials underscored that preventing illegal practices is vital for protecting citizens and maintaining the integrity of pilgrimage management, stressing the crucial role of public awareness in mitigating fraud risks.
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