Around 3,000 Indian Umrah pilgrims who had been stranded in Saudi Arabia have returned to India over the past week, according to an update issued by India’s Ministry of External Affairs . Indian diplomatic missions are continuing to coordinate with airlines and tour operators to help other affected travellers return home.
The situation follows travel disruptions linked to the regional security situation, which has affected flight operations to several Saudi cities.
Indian Embassy and Consulate Coordinate Assistance
The Indian Embassy in Riyadh and the Consulate General in Jeddah are working with airlines and tour operators to organise travel arrangements for pilgrims who remain in the country. Officials are also considering additional measures to facilitate their return as soon as possible.
The government said the approximately 3,000 returning pilgrims were in addition to more than 10,000 regular Umrah pilgrims who had booked available flights and travelled back to India during the same week.
Support Available for Stranded Travellers
Indian diplomatic missions, with assistance from community volunteers, are providing welfare support to affected nationals. Round-the-clock control rooms have also been established in Riyadh and Jeddah to assist Indian citizens and share travel advisories.
The developments come after an attack at King Fahd International Airport in Dammam that killed one Indian national and injured two others, according to the reported update.
What Indian Travellers Should Do
Indian nationals currently in Saudi Arabia should follow official embassy advisories and confirm their flight status directly with their airline or tour operator before travelling to the airport. Passengers whose bookings are affected should check available rebooking or refund options with their carrier.
Travellers who need assistance can contact the Indian Embassy in Riyadh or the Consulate General in Jeddah through their official communication channels. Flight schedules and travel arrangements may change as the situation develops, so checking the latest official updates is important before making onward plans.
