The Indian government has stepped up efforts to assist thousands of Indian pilgrims affected by flight disruptions in Saudi Arabia. According to information shared by the Ministry of External Affairs, around 4,000 Indian Umrah pilgrims have reportedly been stranded in Makkah and Madinah because of interruptions to air services. The situation has raised concerns among families waiting for their relatives to return home. Umrah is an Islamic pilgrimage to Makkah that can be performed at different times of the year, and Indian citizens travel to Saudi Arabia in large numbers to undertake the religious journey. With flight services disrupted, authorities are working to coordinate travel arrangements and help affected passengers secure available routes back to India. The government has identified the safety and timely return of the pilgrims as its immediate priorities.

Indian Embassy and Consulate Coordinate With Airlines

The Indian diplomatic missions in Saudi Arabia are working to support the affected travellers. According to the ministry, the Indian Embassy in Riyadh and the Indian Consulate in Jeddah are in contact with airlines and travel operators to assess the situation and coordinate assistance. These discussions are important for identifying available flights and helping passengers understand their travel options. The arrangements may depend on flight availability, airline schedules and individual booking details. The ministry has also stated that approximately 3,000 affected Umrah pilgrims returned to India over the previous week using available flights. This indicates that some travellers have already been able to complete their journeys home, although thousands may still require assistance. The latest figures in the government’s statement underline the scale of the disruption and the need for continued coordination between Indian officials, airlines and travel companies.

Round-the-Clock Helplines Set Up for Travellers

To help pilgrims and their families obtain information, authorities have established control rooms with 24-hour helplines. These facilities are intended to provide assistance to people seeking guidance about the disruption and their return arrangements. Travellers affected by cancellations or changes should remain in contact with their airlines and authorised travel operators for the latest information about confirmed departures. They should also follow official advisories and verify any revised booking details before travelling to the airport. Families in India can use the relevant official assistance channels to seek updates about their relatives. Passengers should rely on verified government and airline communications rather than unconfirmed messages circulating on social media.

Asaduddin Owaisi Calls for Special Flights

AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi has also urged the central government to arrange special flights to bring back the affected pilgrims. His demand has added to calls for faster travel arrangements for those who remain unable to return on their original schedules. Special flights could be considered as part of the response if the relevant authorities and airlines determine that they are necessary and feasible. However, the information provided does not confirm that a separate evacuation flight operation has been announced. For now, the government’s stated approach centres on coordination with airlines and travel operators, assistance through diplomatic missions and support for pilgrims through helplines.

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What Happens Next?

The next step will depend on flight availability and the arrangements made for passengers whose journeys have been disrupted. Travellers should check their booking status directly with their airlines or travel operators and follow instructions from the Indian diplomatic missions. The government has reported that thousands of affected pilgrims have already returned, but the overall situation will need to be assessed through further official updates. The immediate concern remains helping those still waiting in Saudi Arabia reach India safely.