Indian embassy warns Umrah travellers of flight disruption and extended stays

Indian nationals travelling to Saudi Arabia for Umrah have been warned to prepare for flight cancellations and possible extended stays as airport disruptions continue.

In an advisory issued on Friday, October 16, the Embassy of India in Riyadh urged travellers to plan for flight uncertainty before travelling.

The embassy also asked Indian nationals to follow local authorities’ instructions, stay indoors during an aerial attack and avoid filming, publishing, or sharing information, photographs, or videos related to ongoing events.

Airport operations and flight suspensions

Riyadh’s international airport remained closed to flight operations, the advisory said. Airports in Dammam, Jeddah and Madinah continued operating, although some disruption persisted.

The Friday advisory listed Air India and Air India Express services to and from Saudi Arabia as suspended until October 20. IndiGo’s suspension covered all Saudi routes until October 24.

Akasa Air had suspended Riyadh flights until October 24 and Jeddah services until October 21.

Passengers should check subsequent airline announcements before travelling, as suspension dates can change.

Alternative departure routes

Saudia continued scheduled services to Indian destinations from Dammam, Jeddah and Madinah, while Flynas was operating the Dammam–Lucknow route.

Flyadeal had announced Dammam–Mumbai flights for October 17 and 18.

Indian nationals needing to leave urgently could consider travelling through Bahrain, Kuwait or Qatar, provided they obtained the necessary visas, the embassy said.

Indians receiving hospital treatment

The embassy also provided an update on Indian nationals injured in the October 10 attack on Riyadh airport.

Two remained in intensive care, one was receiving treatment in a high dependency unit and three were recovering in a general ward, according to the October 16 advisory.