New advisory urges safety precautions and warns of ongoing flight disruptions in Saudi Arabia

India issued a fresh advisory on Friday for its citizens in Saudi Arabia following recent security tensions and airport disruptions. The guidance tells nationals to follow local instructions, stay indoors during any aerial attack, and avoid sharing photos or videos of ongoing events on social media.

Medical and Flight Updates

Two Indian citizens hurt in the October 10 attack on Riyadh's King Khalid International Airport are still in the intensive care unit. One more is in the High Dependency Unit, and three others are in a normal hospital ward. Riyadh's international airport stays shut to flights. Facilities in Dammam, Jeddah, and Medina are operating, but disruptions continue. Major carriers including Air India, Air India Express, Akasa Air, and IndiGo have suspended various flights to the region through October 24. Meanwhile, Saudia, Flynas, and Flydeal maintain select operations from operational airports.

Travel and Assistance

Citizens wanting to leave urgently may think about transiting through Bahrain, Kuwait, or Qatar with proper visas. Pilgrims planning Umrah trips should review their plans due to potential cancellations and extended stays. Affected travelers needing help can reach out to operational control rooms in Jeddah and Makkah while keeping their booking and passport details ready. Officials also warned people not to share personal information in public social media comments.

Context

West Asian regional tensions frequently impact commercial aviation corridors and passenger safety protocols across international hubs. Consular advisories serve to guide diaspora communities during emergency situations by providing verified travel alternatives and emergency contact channels.