Indian Embassy Advises Nationals in Saudi Arabia to Stay Alert Amid Attacks and Flight Disruptions

Riyadh, October 16, 2026: The Indian Embassy in Riyadh has urged Indian nationals living in Saudi Arabia to remain calm, stay alert and follow local authorities’ instructions. The Embassy has advised people to remain indoors in the event of an aerial attack amid the prevailing security situation.

In a video message to the Indian community, India’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Vipul, said India had condemned attacks targeting civilian facilities and infrastructure in the Kingdom. He also expressed solidarity with the people and leadership of Saudi Arabia and offered condolences to the families of those killed, wishing a speedy recovery to the injured.

The Ambassador said the Embassy was in contact with the family of an Indian national who died following the October 10 attack on Riyadh airport. Officials were also coordinating with hospital authorities and the families of 11 injured Indian nationals to provide assistance.

Flight Operations Disrupted

Flight services have been affected by the security situation. According to the Embassy’s October 16 advisory, operations at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh remained suspended, while airports in Dammam, Jeddah and Medina continued operating with some disruptions.

Indian carriers had suspended flights to and from Saudi Arabia until October 17, according to the advisory. Saudia continued scheduled services from Dammam, Jeddah and Medina, while Flynas was operating on the Dammam–Lucknow route. Passengers should check directly with their airlines for the latest flight status before travelling.

Assistance for Umrah Pilgrims

The Embassy has established helplines to assist Umrah pilgrims affected by travel disruptions. Indian nationals who need to leave Saudi Arabia urgently may consider available flights from neighbouring countries, including Bahrain, Kuwait and Qatar, subject to visa and entry requirements.

People planning to travel from India to Saudi Arabia have been advised to anticipate possible disruptions and check the latest travel updates before departure.

Advisory Against Sharing Attack Footage

Ambassador Vipul cautioned Indian nationals against recording or sharing photographs and videos of attacks, missile or drone interceptions, and their impact sites, as such activity may attract legal consequences under Saudi regulations.

The Indian Embassy has urged nationals to remain vigilant, follow local safety instructions and use official Embassy or Consulate helplines if they require assistance.

India has reiterated its condemnation of attacks targeting civilian infrastructure in Saudi Arabia and expressed solidarity with the Kingdom.