Thousands of Indian Umrah pilgrims have faced travel disruptions in Saudi Arabia following flight cancellations amid heightened security concerns in the region.

India’s Ministry of External Affairs says it is coordinating with airlines, tour operators, and Indian diplomatic missions to help affected pilgrims return home safely.

Here is the latest update.

MAIN NEWS

According to reports published on October 22, AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi said around 4,000 Indian pilgrims were stranded in the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah after flight cancellations affected their return journeys.

The disruption has raised concerns among pilgrims and their families in India, particularly those waiting for confirmed flights home.

India’s Ministry of External Affairs has confirmed that the Indian Embassy in Riyadh and the Consulate General in Jeddah are actively coordinating with airlines and tour operators to facilitate the return of affected travellers.

The ministry said approximately 3,000 stranded Umrah pilgrims had returned to India on available flights over the preceding week. More than 10,000 other Umrah pilgrims with regular flight bookings had also travelled back during the same period.

Officials said arrangements were being discussed to help the remaining affected pilgrims return as soon as possible.

SECURITY CONCERNS

The travel disruption comes amid heightened regional security concerns following an attack on King Fahd International Airport in Dammam on October 21.

Reports said an Indian national was among those killed in the incident, while other Indian nationals were injured.

India has condemned attacks on civilian and critical infrastructure. The wider security situation has also raised concerns about flight schedules and the safety of travellers in the region.

Passengers should confirm their flight status directly with their airlines before travelling to the airport.

HELP FOR INDIAN PILGRIMS

The Indian Embassy in Riyadh and the Consulate General in Jeddah have established round-the-clock control rooms to assist Indian nationals.

Pilgrims who are affected by cancellations should contact their airline and tour operator, keep their travel documents ready, and seek assistance through official Indian diplomatic channels if necessary.

Families in India are also advised to maintain contact with their relatives and rely on official updates rather than unverified social media messages.

CLOSING

The Indian government says efforts are continuing to facilitate the return of affected Umrah pilgrims.

For many families, the priority is clear: ensuring that their loved ones can return home safely and without further uncertainty.

We will continue to follow this developing story and bring you verified updates.

For the latest international news, Islamic world updates, and important developments from India, stay connected with Islam Global News.

Thank you for watching.

Assalamu Alaikum.