India has advised its nationals in Saudi Arabia to remain alert, stay indoors when necessary and follow instructions issued by local authorities as attacks claimed by Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthi group target airports in the kingdom.
The Indian Embassy in Riyadh issued the advisory on Thursday, October 8, amid escalating hostilities affecting civilian infrastructure and air travel. It also urged Indian nationals not to circulate or repost videos and news related to the ongoing events, cautioning against the spread of unverified information.
The advisory comes as airlines suspend services to Riyadh and passengers face disruption amid the deteriorating security situation.
Embassy and Consulate Continue to Function
The Indian Embassy in Riyadh said it would continue to issue updates as the situation evolves. The Consulate General of India in Jeddah and outsourced consular services through VFS were also reported to be functioning normally.
Indian nationals requiring assistance can contact the Pravasi Bharatiya Sahayata Kendra’s 24-hour helpline at 8002471234, the embassy said.
The mission urged citizens to rely on official communications and follow directions from Saudi authorities rather than act on unverified reports circulating online.
Flights Cancelled Amid Airport Attacks
Air India, IndiGo and Air India Express cancelled flights to and from Riyadh until October 10, citing the security situation. The airlines said affected passengers would be eligible for a full refund or other applicable travel options, according to their respective announcements.
King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh also advised passengers to check directly with their airlines before travelling to the airport.
The Houthi group has claimed attacks on Saudi airports in recent days amid its confrontation with Saudi Arabia, which backs the internationally recognised government of Yemen. Saudi authorities have reported deaths and injuries in attacks on Riyadh and Abha airports.
India has condemned attacks targeting the two airports, describing strikes against civilian infrastructure as unacceptable. The escalation has raised concerns for the safety of Indian nationals living and working in Saudi Arabia, as well as travellers whose journeys may be affected by flight disruptions.
Indian citizens should monitor advisories from the Indian Embassy in Riyadh and the Consulate General in Jeddah, follow local emergency instructions and confirm flight status with airlines before departing for an airport.
Arun Kumar N