Independent Umrah not a threat but boosts Indonesia's religious tourism ecosystem.

The independent umrah policy outlined in Law Number 14 of 2025 concerning the Implementation of Hajj and Umrah is now a hot topic among religious travel industry players. However, member of Commission VIII of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), Ashari Tambunan, emphasized that this policy is not intended to kill off umrah travel businesses, but rather to improve the industry ecosystem, making it more transparent, efficient, and professional.

“This regulation actually provides legal certainty for all parties. Business owners shouldn't panic. The umrah market in Indonesia still needs professional services, from pre-departure rituals (manasik), accommodation, to technical assistance. The difference is, now the public has more diverse choices,” Ashari stated on Monday.

Ashari appealed to travel business players to welcome these changes positively. He encouraged travel agencies to transform from mere package sellers into providers of value-added services, prioritizing the safety and comfort of pilgrims.

“Resilient travel agencies are those capable of innovating to strengthen quality standards, ensuring pilgrim safety, and being transparent about costs. Independent umrah doesn't mean without rules; in fact, it demands greater responsibility,” he said.

According to Ashari, the management of umrah journeys has so far faced several challenges, such as weak oversight, short-term business orientation, and inadequate protection for pilgrims in case of disputes or failed departures. Therefore, he believes a comprehensive reform of the umrah implementation system is essential.

“We need an integrated oversight system covering visas, accommodation, and transportation. Practices like 'selling cheap packages with uncertain departures' must stop. Umrah reform must start with structuring an honest and measurable business,” he said.

The former Regent of Deli Serdang also urged the Ministry of Religious Affairs to promptly issue implementing regulations so that the public understands the detailed procedures for independent umrah, including accommodation requirements, transportation, insurance, and pilgrim reporting.

“We are not killing the umrah business; we are improving its ecosystem. If all parties are disciplined and transparent, pilgrims will be protected and the industry will gain greater trust,” Ashari asserted.

Previously, the Indonesian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah also stated that the independent umrah regulation is a response to the ongoing evolution of the Saudi Arabian government's policies.

“The dynamics of Saudi Arabian policy are unavoidable. Therefore, regulations are needed to provide protection for our umrah pilgrims who choose independent umrah, while also protecting its economic ecosystem,” said Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah (Wamenhaj), Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak.

With the introduction of this independent umrah policy, Indonesia's religious tourism sector has the potential to become more open and competitive. Pilgrims now have a greater opportunity to choose the best services themselves according to their needs, while business players are required to innovate and enhance professionalism.