look news india
An important security alert and travel update has emerged for millions of Indian citizens planning to go to Saudi Arabia or living there. Following the recent security situation in the Gulf region and serious disruption of flights at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, the Indian Embassy has issued a detailed security advisory. Due to the closure of commercial flight operations at Saudi Arabia’s main airport, Indian airlines—Air India, Air India Express and IndiGo—have completely suspended their services till October 24, 2026. This sudden change has increased the problems of pilgrims going for Umrah, working migrants and thousands of travelers traveling on business.
The Indian Embassy has strongly appealed to the Indian community living in Saudi Arabia to exercise utmost caution and strictly follow the official guidelines issued by the local security agencies. In view of security concerns, citizens have been given strict instructions not to leave their homes unnecessarily, stay away from windows and not to record and share unconfirmed photos or videos related to any sensitive incident or attack on social media.
The situation arising at Riyadh Airport has had a direct and major impact on the Indian aviation sector. While earlier the flights were stopped for a limited time, now after reviewing the security situation, the period of suspension has been extended till October 24. Air India and Air India Express have temporarily suspended their services on several routes to Riyadh as well as Jeddah and Dammam. Similarly, the country’s largest private airline Indigo has also officially announced to suspend the operation of its flights to all major cities of Saudi Arabia till October 24.
The airlines have activated the option for full refund and rescheduling of tickets without any extra charges for the affected passengers. Passengers have been advised to compulsorily check the live status of their flight on the airline’s customer care portal or mobile app before leaving for the airport. Special alternative arrangements are also being considered to evacuate passengers stranded at many airports due to sudden cancellation of flights.
According to the official status update issued by the embassy, Riyadh’s main international airport is closed to regular flights, while the airports of Dammam, Jeddah and Medina remain operational despite partial disruptions. If any Indian citizen has to travel for urgent work or emergency, then some foreign and local airlines have options open to them.
Saudi national carrier ‘Saudia’ is operating limited flights to major cities of India as per its scheduled schedule. Additionally, Saudi airline ‘Flynas’ is maintaining connectivity between Dammam and Lucknow, while budget airline ‘Flyadeal’ has announced the launch of special flights on the Dammam-Mumbai route. The Embassy has also suggested that passengers who are required to return immediately to India may use the transit route to Bahrain, Kuwait or Qatar by road or connecting flight, provided they have a valid transit visa from those countries.
The Indian Embassy in Riyadh has issued emergency guidelines for the more than 25 lakh Indian community present in Saudi Arabia. In particular, pilgrims planning Umrah have been cautioned to plan their travel schedule keeping in mind the uncertainty of flights and possible delays. It is advised not to undertake the journey without a confirmed return ticket or in an uncertain security environment.
The Embassy has given clear instructions to the citizens to take shelter inside strong buildings or safe places during any kind of air warning or security alert. The Embassy’s 24×7 helpline number and WhatsApp support desk have been activated for emergency medical assistance or legal help. Indian citizens who are already present there have been asked to keep digital copies of their passport, Iqama (residence permit) and important medical documents safe on their phones.
The increasing tension in the Gulf region has deepened due to fears of drone and missile attacks, after which security protocols have been raised to the highest level. Some foreign nationals and Indian workers were also affected in the recent unrest around Riyadh Airport, who are undergoing proper treatment in local hospitals and the Indian Mission is in constant touch with them.
Expressing deep concern over this entire incident, the Government of India has reiterated its commitment towards the security of Saudi Arabia and regional peace in international forums. At the diplomatic level, officials of both the countries are continuously coordinating to normalize the situation and ensure safe return of stranded passengers home. Postponing travel plans is being considered the safest and most prudent step until security agencies give the green signal and normal operations are restored at Riyadh Airport.