India coordinating airline operations to repatriate Saudi Umrah pilgrims

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed that coordinated efforts with international airlines are underway to bring back Indian Umrah pilgrims currently stranded in Saudi Arabia. According to official statements, around 3,000 pilgrims have successfully returned to India through these operations.

Indian diplomatic missions operating across Saudi Arabia are actively liaising with airline operators to arrange transportation for the remaining stranded pilgrims. The MEA said these missions are managing logistics and documentation required for the repatriation flights.

Umrah, the Islamic pilgrimage that can be performed throughout the year, attracts thousands of Indian Muslims annually. The current situation has prompted heightened coordination between India's foreign service and aviation authorities to ensure safe and orderly return of all affected pilgrims.

The MEA has not disclosed the exact number of pilgrims still awaiting repatriation or provided a timeline for completion of the operation. Officials have assured that efforts to assist stranded Indian nationals remain a priority for the government.