Riyadh, Oct 2026 : Air India and Air India Express have extended the suspension of flights to and from Riyadh and Dammam until November 7, while services connecting Jeddah with India will remain suspended until October 31, the Indian Embassy in Saudi Arabia announced on Saturday.
The decision comes amid continued attacks on civilian infrastructure in Saudi Arabia, including airports in Riyadh and Dammam. The extended flight suspension is expected to affect Indian travellers, including Umrah pilgrims awaiting their return to India.
In its advisory, the Indian Embassy stated that Air India and Air India Express flights to and from Riyadh and Dammam would remain suspended until November 7. Flights operating to and from Jeddah will remain suspended until October 31.
Indian Embassy Facilitates Return of Stranded Umrah Pilgrims
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Friday that the Indian Embassy and Consulate in Saudi Arabia were coordinating with airlines and tour operators to facilitate the early return of Indian pilgrims stranded in the country.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, addressing a regular media briefing in New Delhi, said approximately 3,000 stranded Umrah pilgrims had returned to India over the preceding week. More than 10,000 other Umrah pilgrims had also travelled back to India through regular arrangements.
Jaiswal said discussions were underway to facilitate the return of the remaining pilgrims at the earliest. Indian diplomatic missions are maintaining contact with affected nationals and providing assistance in coordination with community volunteers.
The Embassy and Consulate have also established 24-hour control rooms in Riyadh and Jeddah to help Indian citizens. Regular advisories are being issued to keep travellers informed about developments and available assistance.
India Condemns Attacks on Saudi Civilian Infrastructure
India on Thursday condemned continued attacks on civilian and energy infrastructure in Saudi Arabia, including the reported attack on King Fahad International Airport and the Shaybah oil field operated by Saudi Aramco.
The MEA expressed hope that peace and normalcy would return to the region at the earliest.
According to the ministry, one Indian national was killed and two others were injured in an attack on Dammam airport. Another Indian national sustained injuries in the attack on the Shaybah oil field.
The developments have raised concerns about the safety of Indian nationals in Saudi Arabia and the disruption of air travel. Indian authorities continue to coordinate with airlines, tour operators and local community representatives to assist affected passengers and pilgrims.
Travellers planning to fly between India and Saudi Arabia are advised to check the latest airline announcements and official Embassy advisories before proceeding to airports, as flight schedules remain subject to change.
