The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced on Thursday that it is actively coordinating with airlines and tour operators to ensure the early return of Indian Haj and Umrah pilgrims currently stranded in Saudi Arabia. The travel disruptions, which have left an estimated 4,000 pilgrims stuck in Makkah and Madina, follow recent attacks on critical airport infrastructure in the region.
The situation came to light after Asaduddin Owaisi, leader of the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), raised the issue publicly. In a post on X, Mr. Owaisi noted that thousands of Indian citizens were unable to return home after their flights, operated by IndiGo, Akasa Air, and Air India, were cancelled. He urged the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to intervene by permitting airlines to deploy larger aircraft for rescue operations or to arrange dedicated flights specifically for the stranded pilgrims.
In response to the growing concerns, the MEA confirmed that its diplomatic missions, including the Indian Embassy in Riyadh and the Consulate in Jeddah, are engaged in ongoing discussions with the relevant airlines and tour operators. The ministry stated that these efforts are aimed at facilitating the safe and early return of all affected Indian citizens who are currently unable to depart.
The flight cancellations are a direct result of security incidents impacting major aviation hubs in the country. Specifically, flight schedules have faced significant disruptions following attacks on the King Fahd International Airport in Dammam and the King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. These infrastructure strikes have forced a broad suspension of normal air traffic, complicating travel arrangements for international visitors.
While thousands remain stranded, the government noted that progress has been made regarding other pilgrims in the region. According to the MEA, approximately 3,000 Umrah pilgrims have successfully returned to India on available flights over the past week. This is in addition to more than 10,000 regular Umrah pilgrims who were able to travel back on their original, scheduled flights before the disruptions escalated.
To assist citizens currently in the country, the Indian government has established dedicated control rooms to provide support and information. The MEA has released contact details for these facilities, encouraging stranded pilgrims and their families to reach out for assistance. The ministry remains committed to monitoring the situation closely and coordinating with the Saudi authorities to restore air connectivity as quickly as possible.
As the situation develops, the government continues to work through diplomatic channels to resolve the logistical hurdles posed by the damaged airport infrastructure. While the exact timeline for the return of the remaining 4,000 pilgrims remains subject to the restoration of flight operations, officials are prioritizing the coordination of alternative travel plans to bring them home safely.
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