Flight operations between India and Saudi Arabia continue to face disruption amid rising security concerns in the kingdom. Several Indian airlines have suspended services to major Saudi destinations following attacks on civilian and critical infrastructure, affecting Indian expatriates, business travellers and Umrah pilgrims.
Akasa Air on Sunday extended the suspension of its Jeddah services until November 18 and Riyadh services until November 30. The announcement came after Air India and Air India Express suspended flights to and from Jeddah, Riyadh and Dammam until November 14. IndiGo has also halted services to several Saudi destinations until the same date.
Attacks on Saudi Infrastructure Raise Safety Concerns
The flight disruptions follow attacks on civilian and critical infrastructure, including airports in Saudi Arabia.
According to a statement issued by the Indian Embassy in Riyadh on October 22, an Indian national was killed and two others were injured in an attack on King Fahd International Airport in Dammam on October 21.
Another Indian national was injured in an attack on Saudi Aramco’s Shaybah oil field in the Eastern Province. The Embassy said it was coordinating with Saudi authorities and would extend assistance to affected Indians.
India has also condemned attacks on Abha International Airport and King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, maintaining that targeting civilian infrastructure is unacceptable.
Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels have claimed responsibility for several attacks on Saudi targets, including airports and energy facilities, amid the wider regional conflict.
Indian Embassy Issues Safety Advisory
The Indian Embassy in Riyadh has advised Indian nationals to remain calm and vigilant, stay indoors during air attacks and follow instructions issued by local authorities. It has also urged people not to circulate videos or news related to the developments.
Meanwhile, the Consulate General of India in Jeddah is coordinating with airlines, local authorities and community organisations to assist affected Indian nationals, particularly Umrah pilgrims. Efforts are also underway to facilitate alternative travel arrangements.
Saudi Airlines Continue Limited India Operations
While several Indian carriers have suspended services, Saudi airlines continue to operate some flights to India. Limited operations have resumed at Riyadh airport, including India-bound flynas services, while Saudi carriers are operating flights from Dammam, Jeddah and Madinah.
Passengers travelling between India and Saudi Arabia have been advised to check directly with airlines for updated schedules before leaving for airports.
Saudi Arabia is home to a large Indian expatriate community and remains a major destination for Indians undertaking the Umrah pilgrimage. Continued flight disruptions could therefore affect a significant number of travellers until the security situation improves.
Official Link: Embassy of India, Riyadh
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