Flight disruptions could leave Umrah pilgrims paying losses and extra costs themselves

Flight disruptions caused by volcanic ash from the Anak Krakatau eruption could leave Umrah pilgrims bearing financial losses and unexpected expenses, according to the Indonesian Umrah and Hajj Organizers Association, known as Himpuh.

Himpuh chairman Muhammad Firman Taufik said delays or diverted flights could interfere with services already included in pilgrims’ packages. Those risks include hotel accommodation, visas and air tickets. Pilgrims could also have to pay for replacement arrangements themselves.

“The risks for pilgrims include losing hotel facilities, visas and flights that are part of the Umrah package, as well as possible costs for sudden facilities that they must pay for themselves,” Firman said in Jakarta on Monday, Sept. 7, 2026.

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The risks for pilgrims include losing hotel facilities, visas and flights that are part of the Umrah package, as well as possible costs for sudden facilities that they must pay for themselves.

Himpuh is compiling information on members affected by the flight disruption and has opened a dedicated communication channel for tour leaders accompanying pilgrims. The channel is intended to speed up information sharing with leaders who are with pilgrims in Indonesia, en route or stranded in Saudi Arabia.

Firman said the association was also maintaining intensive communication with relevant parties to ensure pilgrims receive proper assistance. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has established its own communication channel with Umrah organizer associations and other stakeholders, including airlines and the Transport Ministry.

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At present, Himpuh is compiling information on our members affected, creating a dedicated communication channel for tour leaders accompanying pilgrims, and communicating intensively with relevant parties.