Indian embassy advises nationals on Saudi exit as airlines suspend flights

The Indian embassy in Riyadh has advised nationals in emergency situations that they can exit Saudi Arabia through neighbouring countries as regional tensions persist. The advisory comes as four major Indian airlines have cancelled flights connecting India and the Saudi capital.

Air India Express, Akasa Air, IndiGo and Air India have suspended services on these routes until October 17, disrupting travel for thousands of passengers. The flight cancellations reflect heightened security concerns in the region triggered by recent military strikes.

Indians requiring immediate departure have been directed to explore alternative travel arrangements through adjacent nations, according to the embassy's guidance. The move underscores growing caution among Indian carriers operating in the Middle East.

The suspensions represent a significant disruption to air connectivity between India and Saudi Arabia, a key destination for Indian workers, students and business travellers. Airlines typically maintain robust schedules on this route, making the extended cancellations a notable development. No timeline has been provided for when services might resume to normal operations.