Tensions Rise: India Warns Citizens in Saudi Arabia to Stay Safe
India warns nationals in Saudi Arabia to take precautions amid regional tensions and flight disruptions. Check travel alternatives and safety tips.
In response to escalating regional tensions and recent attacks on infrastructure, the Indian government has issued a critical safety advisory for its nationals living and traveling in Saudi Arabia. The Indian Embassy in Riyadh has urged the community to exercise extreme caution and follow specific safety protocols to ensure their well-being during this volatile period.
Urgent Safety Guidelines for Indian Nationals
The Indian Embassy has released a set of immediate precautions for the diaspora to follow. In the event of an aerial attack, citizens are advised to:
- Seek immediate shelter: Move to the nearest safe location, preferably inside a building or an interior room far from windows.
- Maintain information security: The Embassy has strictly warned against filming, publishing, or sharing any photos, videos, or information regarding the ongoing events on social media or other platforms.
Flight Disruptions and Travel Alternatives
The security situation has severely impacted air travel. While Riyadh's international airport has seen flight operations suspended, airports in Dammam, Jeddah, and Medina remain operational, though disruptions persist.
Suspension of Indian Carriers
Major Indian airlines have extended the suspension of their services to and from Saudi Arabia. The current deadlines are as follows:
- Air India, Air India Express, and Indigo: All routes suspended until October 24.
- Akasa Air: All routes suspended until October 27.
Alternative Travel Options
For those needing to return to India, the Embassy has suggested the following alternatives:
- Saudia: Scheduled flights are operating from Dammam, Jeddah, and Medina.
- Flynas: Operating Dammam-Delhi and Dammam-Mumbai flights (Oct 17-24), with scheduled Dammam-Lucknow services continuing.
- Flyadeal: Dammam-Mumbai flights were available on October 17-18.
Citizens requiring urgent departure are advised to consider transiting through Bahrain, Kuwait, or Qatar, provided they can secure the necessary visas.
Warning for Umrah Pilgrims
The government has issued a specific warning to prospective travelers, including those heading for Umrah. They are urged to account for potential flight cancellations and disruptions that could lead to extended stays. The Embassy has reminded travelers that 24x7 control rooms are available for emergency assistance.
Diplomatic Stance and Government Response
India has strongly condemned the attacks on civilian infrastructure within Saudi Arabia, labeling such actions as "unacceptable" and expressing full solidarity with the Kingdom's right to defend its sovereignty.
During a media briefing in New Delhi, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed that the Indian Embassy is in constant communication with the diaspora. He noted that embassy officials are visiting hospitals to support Indian nationals receiving medical care and are staying in touch with their families.
"In so far as the situation of our people, we have a large diaspora there... they've issued advisories. Some of them have been impacted because there have been disruptions in the flight schedule after the attack on the Riyadh International Airport and other airports," Jaiswal stated, expressing hope that peace and normalcy will soon return to the region.