Indonesia Explores Sea Travel for Hajj and Umrah Pilgrimages
Indonesia is considering a return to sea travel for the annual Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages, a move officials believe could broaden access to the holy sites and potentially lower costs. The idea gained renewed traction following recent discussions between Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and Saudi authorities.
The Ministry of Religious Affairs has been approached by several companies proposing sea routes for Hajj pilgrimages, though none currently possess the necessary vessels. “Many companies have come to the office to present this concept, but they don’t have ships,” a senior official stated on Thursday, July 10, 2025, during a meeting at the Coordinating Ministry for Human Development and Culture in Jakarta. “They may have partnered with external parties, which could make the cost high.”
Currently, no sea-based Hajj pilgrimages are in operation. However, some Indonesian pilgrims already utilize sea travel for Umrah, typically by flying to a neighboring country and boarding a cruise ship. The cost of this alternative route remains unclear, with officials noting limited data on current usage.
The potential for cost savings hinges on competition among operators. “If there is strong competition, it could become cheaper. But if there’s only one provider, the cost will be high,” the official added. Saudi Arabia already possesses the infrastructure to accommodate sea-based pilgrimages, with substantial port facilities, particularly in Jeddah.
A Historical Precedent
Sea travel for religious pilgrimages is not a novel concept for Indonesia. In the past, vessels like the Belle Abeto and Gunung Jati were used to transport pilgrims to Saudi Arabia, though the journey was significantly longer, taking three to four months. Modern ships and improved sea routes could substantially reduce travel time.
The renewed interest in sea travel comes after President Subianto and the Minister of Religious Affairs visited Saudi Arabia on July 2, 2025. “We believe that introducing Umrah and Hajj travel by sea is highly promising,” the Minister of Religious Affairs said in a written statement on Tuesday, July 8, 2025.
The government envisions sea transportation as a way to increase accessibility, particularly for pilgrims from across Asia. “Not only countries nearby like Egypt, but also Indonesia and other Asian nations could benefit from this route,” the official explained. This expanded access could alleviate pressure on air travel infrastructure and potentially accommodate a larger number of pilgrims annually.
The Ministry of Religious Affairs is continuing discussions with Saudi authorities to explore the feasibility and logistics of implementing sea-based Hajj and Umrah trips. Further analysis is needed to determine the optimal vessel types, route planning, and cost structures to ensure a safe, affordable, and accessible pilgrimage experience for Indonesian citizens.
