NEW DELHI: Around 3,000 stranded Indian Umrah pilgrims have returned from Saudi Arabia over the past week, as the government steps up efforts to bring back the remaining affected travellers through coordination with airlines and tour operators.
More than 10,000 other pilgrims who had regular flight bookings also returned to India during the same period. Authorities are working to arrange travel for those still awaiting their return.
The Indian Embassy in Riyadh and the Consulate General in Jeddah are closely monitoring the situation and providing assistance to affected Indian nationals. Emergency control rooms have been established at both diplomatic missions to offer round the clock support, while regular advisories are being issued to keep travellers informed.
Community volunteers are also helping the diplomatic missions provide welfare assistance to those facing difficulties.
Indian nationals requiring assistance in Saudi Arabia can contact the following helplines:
Embassy of India, Riyadh
* Telephone: +966 554412016, +966 542126784
* Toll free: 8002471234, available within Saudi Arabia
* WhatsApp messages: +966 536216082
Consulate General of India, Jeddah
* Telephone: +966 12 2614093, +966 556122301
* WhatsApp messages: +966 536209704
The developments come amid security concerns following an attack at King Fahd International Airport in Dammam on October 21. Two people, including an Indian national, were killed in the incident, while eight others were injured, according to Saudi authorities.
Two Indian nationals were among the injured. The Indian Embassy in Riyadh has been contacting the affected families and gathering further details about the incident.
Saudi aviation authorities said investigations and damage assessments were underway in coordination with security agencies. Measures were also being taken to safeguard passengers and airport staff.
The return of stranded pilgrims remains a priority as Indian diplomatic missions continue coordinating travel arrangements and providing assistance to nationals affected by the disruption.
