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India on Tuesday advised its nationals in Saudi Arabia to remain calm and stay vigilant in view of an evolving security situation in the kingdom. The embassy
asked the citizens not to circulate videos related to the ongoing events. The tensions between Saudi Arabia and Yemen's Iran-backed Houthis have been escalating, resulting in deadly drone and missile attacks targeting civilian infrastructure. An Indian national was killed in the attack on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh on October 10, which also left several people injured.
What the Indian Embassy Said
"In view of the current situation, all Indian nationals in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia are advised to remain calm and vigilant, stay indoors in the case of an aerial attack and follow the instructions issued by the local authorities through official channels," The Indian Embassy said in its latest advisory.
The mission also advised Indian nationals "to refrain from circulating or reposting any videos or news related to the ongoing events."
The embassy also advised Indian nationals to remain in regular contact with respective airlines and verify the latest status of their flights. Notably, Indian carriers have also suspended operations to Saudi Arabia.
The embassy said that Indian nationals who wish to depart Saudi Arabia "may also avail flights available from airports in neighbouring Gulf countries, particularly Qatar and Bahrain." "However, it may be noted that this is subject to obtaining visa from the respective country as per their rules," it said.
The Indian mission said that Saudi Authorities will not fine Indian nationals who have arrived in the kingdom on Visit/Tourist /Umrah/Business visas but were forced to overstay due to non-availability of flights.
"However, it is important that people whose visas have expired should exit the Kingdom at the earliest as soon as flights become available," it said.
Indian Embassy Opens 24x7 Control Room
The Embassy has opened 24x7 Control Room to provide necessary assistance to Indian nationals in Saudi Arabia. Telephone: +966-1 1-488469 8002471234 (Toll free; Calls from within KSA only), WhatsApp: +966-536216082 (messages only) and Email: cw.rivadh@mea.gov.in.
The Consulate General of India in Jeddah also issued a similar advisory for Indian nationals, particularly Umrah pilgrims travelling to and from Jeddah and the holy city of Madinah.
The Consulate said those requiring assistance may contact the Control Room (24x7) at the following numbers: Telephone: +966 12 2614093; +966 556122301 WhatsApp: + 966 536209704 Email:; pbskcgi@gmail.com.
