Indonesia Pushes for Civilized Hajj and Umrah Ecosystem

Indonesia's Minister of Religious Affairs, Gus Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, is spearheading efforts to strengthen the national Hajj and Umrah ecosystem, emphasizing civilization, transparency, and justice. He believes this is crucial for establishing sound governance within the pilgrimage industry and delivering optimal services to pilgrims.

"The entire ecosystem must grow in one direction: pilgrim services that are safe, comfortable, orderly, in accordance with Sharia, transparent, accountable, and dignified," Gus Yaqut stated at the opening of the International Islamic Expo 2026 in Jakarta. He highlighted that the government's focus on enhancing the Hajj and Umrah industry is part of its constitutional mandate to promote social justice and economic growth that benefits the public.

He urged all stakeholders in the Hajj and Umrah industry to adapt to modern developments while prioritizing pilgrim service and protection. Synergy between the government, businesses, and the public is key to professional industry management. Adherence to regulations by both government and private organizers forms the foundation for civilized Hajj and Umrah operations, ensuring legal certainty for all parties.

The "International Islamic Expo 2026," held from June 26-28, 2026, at the Jakarta Convention Center, gathered various stakeholders including government bodies, Umrah and special Hajj travel operators, airlines, accommodation providers, Islamic financial institutions, the halal industry, and international partners. Minister Gus Yaqut reiterated the government's commitment to continuously improving Hajj service quality, preserving successful innovations, and evaluating areas for improvement in the upcoming Hajj season.

The expo is seen as a starting point for national consolidation, focusing on five main agendas: pilgrim protection, transparency in costs and services, regulatory compliance, digital integration, and strengthening the national Hajj and Umrah economy. Gus Yaqut described these transformations as a collective effort to build a more advanced Indonesian Hajj and Umrah ecosystem.