3,000 Stranded Umrah Pilgrims Safely Return to India, Says Ministry of External Affairs
Indian diplomatic missions in Saudi Arabia are working around the clock to help pilgrims affected by flight disruptions return home safely.
Around 3,000 Indian Umrah pilgrims who were stranded in Saudi Arabia have returned home safely over the past week through emergency flights, the Ministry of External Affairs has confirmed.
The ministry also reported that more than 10,000 other pilgrims whose flights were operating according to their original schedules have safely reached their respective cities in India.
Indian Diplomatic Missions Step Up Assistance
Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal shared the latest update on social media platform X. He said Indian diplomatic missions were working around the clock to address travel disruptions caused by the situation in the Gulf region.
The Indian Embassy in Riyadh and the Consulate General in Jeddah have coordinated with airlines and authorised tour operators to arrange alternative travel for passengers whose flights were cancelled or delayed.
The coordinated efforts aim to ensure that stranded pilgrims can return to India as soon as possible.
Flight Disruptions Cause Concern Among Pilgrims
Growing tensions in West Asia, along with airspace restrictions and flight delays, have caused uncertainty for thousands of pilgrims who travelled to Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah.
The disruptions have also raised concerns among family members waiting for their safe return.
Elderly pilgrims, women and children have faced additional difficulties, particularly while waiting at airports and arranging accommodation and meals during unexpected delays.
In response, Indian diplomatic representatives have established special assistance counters to provide guidance and support to affected travellers.
Government Says Safety of Citizens Is a Priority
Indian authorities have reiterated that ensuring the safe return of every Indian citizen remains a top priority.
Coordination with airport officials and Saudi authorities at Jeddah International Airport has also been strengthened to facilitate travel arrangements and provide priority boarding and other assistance to pilgrims when necessary.
More Flights Expected to Help Remaining Pilgrims
Additional and special flights are expected to be arranged over the coming days to help the remaining stranded pilgrims return to India.
Authorities are continuing their efforts to assist affected passengers and resolve travel difficulties arising from the ongoing disruptions.