The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has confirmed that around 3,000 Indian Umrah pilgrims who were stranded in Saudi Arabia have successfully returned to India over the past week. This achievement is attributed to the effective collaboration between Indian diplomatic missions, airlines, and tour operators. The ongoing efforts aim to ensure the safe return of all affected pilgrims as soon as possible.

In addition to the stranded pilgrims, over 10,000 regularly scheduled Umrah pilgrims have also made their way back to India during the same timeframe. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal announced on X that both the Indian Embassy in Riyadh and the Consulate General in Jeddah are closely monitoring the situation and providing robust ground support to facilitate the return process.

Jaiswal noted, “Our Embassy in Riyadh @IndianEmbRiyadh and the Consulate in Jeddah @CGIJeddah are actively engaging with concerned airlines and tour operators to facilitate the early return of affected pilgrims. Over the past week, about 3,000 stranded Umrah pilgrims have travelled from Saudi Arabia back to India on available flights.” He also mentioned that arrangements are ongoing to assist other Umrah pilgrims in returning home at the earliest opportunity.

Emergency Support Mechanisms Activated

The MEA has operationalised round-the-clock emergency support mechanisms at both diplomatic stations, which are further bolstered by local community networks. Jaiswal stated that the Embassy and Consulate are working alongside community volunteers to provide comprehensive welfare assistance to Indian nationals in Saudi Arabia.

To enhance communication, the MEA has established 24×7 Control Rooms to assist Indian citizens and is issuing regular advisories. Jaiswal highlighted the importance of these measures in ensuring that all Indian nationals receive timely support during this challenging period.

In addition to the ongoing support for returning pilgrims, the MEA has released official contact numbers and dedicated helplines for Indians needing assistance in Saudi Arabia. The Embassy of India in Riyadh can be reached at +966-554412016 and +966-542126784, with a toll-free number available for calls made within the Kingdom. The Consulate General of India in Jeddah can be contacted at +966-12-2614093.

Tragic Incident at Dammam Airport

On Thursday, the Indian Embassy in Riyadh reported that an Indian national was among two fatalities resulting from an attack on King Fahd International Airport in Dammam, Saudi Arabia. Additionally, two other Indian nationals were injured during the incident, as confirmed by Saudi authorities.

The Embassy stated, “Saudi authorities have informed that one Indian national was among two people who unfortunately lost their lives in the attack on Dammam airport yesterday night.” The Embassy is currently working to gather further details and is in contact with the affected families to provide necessary support.

Following the attack, the General Authority of Civil Aviation in Saudi Arabia confirmed that the death toll had risen to two, with the deceased identified as a Saudi citizen and an Indian resident. The authority reported that the number of injured remains at eight, comprising various nationalities, including Indian, Yemeni, Bangladeshi, and Nepali residents.

Efforts are underway to assess the damage caused by the incident and to implement measures aimed at ensuring the safety of passengers and airport staff. Investigations are ongoing, with security agencies coordinating to maintain the safety of airport operations and personnel.

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