Last Rites Performed for Indian Umrah Pilgrims Killed in Saudi Bus Tragedy

New Delhi, Nov 2025 : The final rites of the Indian Umrah pilgrims who lost their lives in the tragic bus accident in Saudi Arabia were performed on Saturday in Medina, bringing closure to one of the most heartbreaking incidents involving Indian citizens abroad in recent years.

A total of 45 pilgrims from Hyderabad died early Monday morning when their bus collided with an oil tanker and caught fire near Medina. Among the deceased were 17 men, 18 women, and 10 children, many from the neighbourhoods of Asif Nagar, Jhirra, Mehdipatnam, and Toli Chowki. The devastating accident has left families shattered and communities mourning deeply.

According to the Indian Embassy in Riyadh, the funeral prayers were held at the Prophet’s Mosque, one of the holiest sites in Islam. The burial took place at Jannat ul Baqi, the sacred cemetery in Medina, marking a solemn farewell for the victims.
The rites were attended by Andhra Pradesh Governor S. Abdul Nazeer, who joined grieving relatives during the prayers and burial. Indian Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Suhel Khan and Consul General in Jeddah Fahad Suri were also present, offering support and solidarity on behalf of the Government of India.

The Embassy reiterated its condolences to the bereaved families and pledged continued assistance. In the immediate aftermath of the tragedy, the Indian Consulate in Jeddah set up a camp office in the Indian Haj Pilgrims Office in Medina to help families with documentation, arrangements, and coordination with Saudi authorities.

The incident has drawn emotional responses from India’s top leadership.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed profound grief over the loss of lives, calling the accident “deeply saddening.” In his message on X, he conveyed his sympathies to the families and prayed for the swift recovery of those injured. He also assured that Indian officials were working closely with Saudi authorities to provide all necessary support.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar echoed the Prime Minister’s sentiments, saying he was “deeply shocked” by the tragedy. He reaffirmed that the Embassy and Consulate were offering full assistance to affected families and coordinating every step needed in the aftermath.

As families continue to mourn the irreplaceable loss of their loved ones, Indian authorities, both in Riyadh and New Delhi, remain committed to ensuring that every possible support reaches those affected by this heartbreaking accident.