Tuesday, June 3, 2025

Hajj Furoda Visa Crisis Shocks Indonesian Pilgrims


Source : MetroTV

Many Indonesian Hajj Furoda pilgrims were unable to depart for Mecca in 2025 due to the non-issuance of their visas by the Saudi Arabian government. The Furoda visa, which is a non-quota Hajj pathway, is typically chosen by pilgrims who wish to bypass the long waiting list of the official quota system.

Unfortunately, as of May 26, 2025, the Saudi government officially closed visa issuance for Furoda pilgrims. This left many who had already paid high fees ranging from USD 22,000 to USD 50,000 (around IDR 400-900 million) stranded and unable to make the pilgrimage.

In response, some travel agencies have offered 100% refunds to affected pilgrims, in accordance with prior agreements. However, the Indonesian Hajj Advocacy Commission (Komnas Haji) reminded the public not to blame the Indonesian government for the issue, since the Furoda visa is outside the national quota and fully controlled by Saudi authorities (Travel Kompas).

As a preventive measure, prospective pilgrims are advised to consider regular Hajj or special Hajj quotas for more certainty in future years.

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