Indonesia Reviews Visa-Free Deal with UAE to Boost Umrah Travel
Indonesia is reviewing a reciprocal visa waiver arrangement with the UAE. The proposal aims to support umrah travel and boost bilateral mobility. It also includes expanded aviation cooperation between the two nations.
Chief Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra confirmed the review is underway. He stated that cooperation between Indonesia and the UAE continues to widen across multiple sectors. These include education, employment, and healthcare.
He highlighted the UAE’s support in building mosques and healthcare facilities in Indonesia. Furthermore, he expressed hope for deeper medical collaboration. This would help address Indonesia’s shortage of specialist doctors and advanced infrastructure.
Stronger Air Connectivity on the Horizon
UAE Ambassador Abdulla Salem Aldhahheri announced major aviation plans. Etihad Airways plans to launch direct flights from Abu Dhabi to Medan and Surabaya. Emirates is also processing permits to operate wide-body aircraft into Indonesia.
These new routes will significantly enhance connectivity between the two countries. Improved air links directly support the anticipated growth in umrah travel. They also facilitate business and tourism movement in both directions.
The two nations recently commemorated 50 years of diplomatic ties. Multiple high-level visits have marked this enduring relationship. The UAE president is expected to visit Indonesia in the near future.
Expanding Beyond Traditional Partnerships
Cooperation has grown far beyond ports and oil. Strategic areas now include renewable energy, defense, healthcare, and education. Several joint initiatives are already underway across the archipelago.
These include the development of a cardiac hospital in Solo. A mangrove research center is also planned in Bali. Academic cooperation between Nahdlatul Ulama University and Zayed University is progressing.
Investment cooperation is also accelerating national development. Yusril cited the establishment of Danantara, a government investment institution. Collaboration with the Dubai Fund is expected to drive economic growth.
Strong Umrah Demand and Steady Hajj Quota
Indonesian umrah travel numbers remain robust. Data shows about 1.4 million pilgrims departed through licensed organizers in 2024. Saudi Arabia’s ministry recorded an even higher figure of 1.8 million Indonesians.
The government has set the 2026 hajj quota at 221,000 pilgrims. This figure remains unchanged from the previous year. The proposed visa waiver could further increase religious travel volumes.
Yusril welcomed the growing number of UAE nationals visiting Indonesia. He cited significant improvements in immigration services. He stressed the need to deepen collaboration in other sectors, including geothermal projects involving state-owned Pertamina.
