TEMPO.CO, Batam - PT Bandara Internasional Batam (BIB) has officially launched the first direct flight route from Batam to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, for umrah pilgrims. The route is operated by Lion Air.
Annang Setia Budhi, Acting CEO of PT Bandara Internasional Batam, said the pilgrimage flight to the Holy Land is the result of a partnership between the airport and the airline.
"This flight will operate from Hang Nadim International Airport in Batam every Saturday with a capacity of 436 seats. Based on the information we received, the flights are fully booked through March 2026," Annang said in Batam on Saturday, July 12, 2025.
He added that the direct Batam-Jeddah route demonstrates the airport’s commitment to providing more direct access for umrah pilgrims, eliminating the need to transit through other cities.
According to Annang, umrah travelers will also receive full services from departure until their return home.
"These umrah passengers are international travelers undertaking religious tourism, so they deserve the highest standard of service at the departure terminal, during check-in, and when they arrive back," he explained.
Regarding other flight options, Annang noted that Batik Air Malaysia also offers umrah flights from Batam, but those require a stopover in Kuala Lumpur before continuing to Jeddah. At present, Lion Air is the only airline providing a direct connection from Batam to Jeddah.
"This gives more choices to travel agents and pilgrims. For those who prefer a non-stop journey, Lion Air is currently the best option," he said.
BIB hopes that this direct flight will draw more pilgrims from across Sumatra and help boost Batam’s local economy, particularly in the travel, catering, and accommodation sectors.
With this new connection to the Mecca, BIB continues to strengthen its role as a key international hub, especially in facilitating religious tourism and umrah services.
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