Indonesia tightens Hajj health screenings following Saudi sanctions

Indonesia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah is tightening health screenings for prospective Hajj pilgrims for 2027. This decision follows sanctions from Saudi Arabia regarding alleged health insurance violations, which resulted in the blocking of 14 million riyals. Deputy Minister Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak noted that the government is addressing issues where pilgrims with certain medical conditions were previously cleared despite strict requirements.

To meet Saudi standards, pilgrims must be free from nine specific health conditions, including kidney failure, heart failure, chronic lung disease, cirrhosis, severe psychiatric disorders, dementia, active cancer undergoing chemotherapy, infectious diseases like tuberculosis, and being in the third month of pregnancy. The ministry faces a dilemma in balancing strict health requirements with the long waiting lists of prospective pilgrims whose health may decline over time.

Separately, the ministry is prioritizing pilgrim protection by mediating disputes related to Umrah services. This includes addressing complaints against PT Jgrup Amanah Wisata regarding delayed departures and unresolved refunds. The ministry stated it will continue to perform mitigation, supervision, and coaching to ensure Umrah travel remains safe and responsible.