Ragunan Zoo in Jakarta, Indonesia, welcomed a total of 353,525 visitors during the Eid al-Fitr holiday, which ran from March 22 to March 28. The head of the zoo's public relations department, Wahyu Bambang, reported a significant influx of visitors, with the highest number recorded on March 23, reaching 80,790 visitors.
The visitor numbers continued to rise, with 72,311 visitors on March 22 and 69,890 on March 24. However, the numbers began to decline after March 25, with 49,476 visitors recorded, followed by 29,542 on March 26 and 16,604 on March 27. By March 28, the number of visitors had reached 34,912 by noon.
Event Details
The management of Ragunan Zoo anticipates that visitor numbers during the Eid al-Fitr holiday in 2026 will reach 400,000, with the holiday extending from March 22 to March 29. To accommodate this large influx of visitors, 27 parking areas were established, and 854 security personnel were deployed to ensure the comfort and safety of the guests.
In this context, the Indonesian police conducted inspections of the zoo on March 21 to ensure visitor safety and provide a secure environment during the holiday period. Teguhon Sabutro, head of the special operations unit, emphasized the importance of these visits in enhancing citizens' sense of security.
Background & Context
Ragunan Zoo is considered one of the premier tourist destinations in Indonesia, featuring a diverse array of animals and plants. Established in 1966, the zoo serves as a sanctuary for families and children, offering them the opportunity to learn about wildlife in a safe and enjoyable environment. With the increasing number of visitors, the zoo has become a symbol of family entertainment in the Indonesian capital.
The Eid al-Fitr holiday coincides with a noticeable increase in domestic tourism, as many people seek to celebrate the occasion by visiting tourist attractions. Ragunan Zoo is one of the preferred destinations for families, reflecting the significance of tourism in supporting the local economy.
Impact & Consequences
The significant increase in visitor numbers during the Eid al-Fitr holiday indicates a resurgence of tourism in Indonesia, especially following the challenges faced by the country due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This recovery reflects the citizens' desire to return to normalcy and engage in recreational activities.
Moreover, the large number of visitors underscores the importance of careful planning by local authorities to ensure the provision of necessary services, such as security and cleanliness, which enhances the visitor experience and bolsters the zoo's reputation as a tourist destination.
Regional Significance
Tourism is a vital sector in many Arab countries, with numerous destinations experiencing an increase in tourist numbers. The tourism sector in Arab nations can benefit from the successful experiences of Ragunan Zoo in managing large visitor volumes and providing a safe and enjoyable environment.
Amid the economic challenges faced by some Arab countries, tourism can serve as a means to bolster the local economy and create new job opportunities. Enhancing both domestic and international tourism can contribute to sustainable development in the region.