Indonesia is establishing a dedicated task force to combat illegal Hajj travel schemes, following a directive from President Prabowo Subianto, as authorities report that fraud cases cost pilgrims an estimated IDR92.64bn ($5.4mn) in 2026.
Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak said the task force, formed in coordination with the National Police (Polri), will prioritise preventive measures at airports, working alongside police and immigration authorities to stop illegal departures. “This year, we must prevent illegal Hajj practices, including through preventive measures at airports in coordination with the police and immigration authorities,”
In 2025, authorities blocked around 1,243 individuals from departing using non-Hajj visas. The police handled 42 Hajj and Umrah fraud cases in 2026, with one already proceeding to prosecution. Antara News
Director General of Hajj and Umrah Implementation Puji Raharjo said the ministry and the Indonesian Consul General in Jeddah had agreed to intensify public education to prevent citizens from using non-procedural travel arrangements. “Do not focus on package names. Verify the validity of the Hajj visa, the legality of organisers and their compliance with regulations,” he said. Antara News — ANTARA News, April 5, 2026
The consequences for pilgrims travelling on non-Hajj visas can be severe. In May 2025, at least 13 Indonesians attempted to enter Jeddah without proper visas. Ten were denied entry, while three others were abandoned by a taxi driver outside Jeddah; one died from dehydration and two were hospitalised with serious health complications. The travel agency owner responsible was arrested by Saudi security forces. ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute
Authorities noted that illegal schemes frequently exploit limited Hajj quotas and high demand among prospective pilgrims, urging the public to use only licensed travel operators and verify information through official government channels. Antara News
The task force will also strengthen coordination with Saudi Arabian authorities and establish a dedicated hotline for integrated case handling. Antara News
Indonesia’s 2026 Hajj quota stands at 221,000 pilgrims, with waiting times ranging from 11 to 47 years depending on the province of origin, a backlog that officials say drives demand for illegal fast-track schemes