Bali Reassures Tourists Amidst Unrest: Travel Warnings Issued but Island Remains Safe for Visitors

Bali Officials Affirm Tourist Safety Amid Civil Unrest and New Arrival Protocols

In the wake of recent civil unrest across Indonesia, Bali’s authorities have moved swiftly to reassure tourists that the island remains a safe and welcoming destination. This reminder comes amid a wave of protests that have caused significant disruption and led to new travel protocols for international arrivals.

Civil Unrest Sparks Concerns but No Travel Ban

Since Thursday, Indonesia has witnessed widespread protests beginning in the capital city, Jakarta. Demonstrations—rooted in opposition to perceived political privilege and elitism—escalated quickly, with incidents of arson targeting buildings and vehicles. The unrest spread to other major urban centres, including Denpasar, Bali’s capital and a key tourist hub. Tensions peaked when protestors marched on a police building in Denpasar, hurling rocks at riot police and their vehicles, resulting in at least 158 arrests and six fatalities nationwide.

Despite these events, local officials emphasize that the demonstrations, while serious, should not deter tourism. The Indonesian Travel Agencies Association chairman, Putu Winastra, clarified that travel warnings issued by various governments, including Australia, are precautionary and do not equate to travel bans. “A travel warning is just a reminder and appeal to be careful. It’s not forbidden,” he told the Bali Post.

Australia’s government updated its Smartraveller advice urging visitors to exercise a high degree of caution when travelling to Indonesia. The advisory specifically mentions the occurrence of large protests in multiple cities, including Bali, warning of potential violence and disruption to traffic. Notably, Australians constitute the largest group of foreign visitors to Bali, making up 23% of tourists in May 2025 based on data from the Bali Central Bureau of Statistics.

Tourism’s Vital Role in Bali’s Economy

Tourism is a cornerstone of Bali’s economy, accounting for more than half of its economic activity, according to The Jakarta Post. Last year, the island welcomed 6.3 million foreign tourists—surpassing its resident population of 4.5 million. Bali Traditional Village Council Chairman Ida Penglingsir Agung Putra Sukahet stressed the importance of maintaining peace: “Bali is highly dependent on tourism. Therefore, it is crucial that we gather rather than anticipate demonstrations that could turn chaotic.”

In a public demonstration of unity and resolve, Bali’s Governor Wayan Koster led thousands of Pecalang—traditional community security guards—in a gathering at Denpasar’s Niti Mandala Renon Field. The assembly chanted “Bali is peaceful” en masse, signaling the island’s commitment to safeguarding its residents and visitors alike.

New Arrival Protocols Aim to Streamline Entry

Alongside these assurances, Indonesian authorities have introduced new protocols for international travellers. From 1 September 2025, all visitors arriving in Bali must complete a newly implemented ‘All Indonesia’ declaration card online prior to their arrival. This one-stop digital form consolidates information previously collected through several different health, customs, immigration, and quarantine forms.

The new system requires travellers to provide details on their intended travel, transportation, and accommodation at least three days before landing. Initially mandated for international passengers arriving at Jakarta’s Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport, and Surabaya’s Juanda International Airport, the requirement will extend to all airports and ferry terminals across Indonesia by 1 October.

Despite this consolidation, travellers—Australians included—will continue to require visas. Visitors must apply for an electronic Visa on Arrival (e-VOA) at least 48 hours before travelling, with both the visa application and declaration card available through the All Indonesia online platform.

Travelers Encouraged to Stay Informed

With these developments, Bali’s tourism industry and authorities encourage visitors to stay informed through official channels and exercise standard precautions. The administration underscores that, while the current political climate demands vigilance, Bali remains a vibrant and safe destination ready to welcome tourists.

For continued updates on travel to Bali and other destinations in Indonesia, travellers should consult official government websites and travel advisory services.