About 600 Umrah pilgrims from Karnataka remain stranded in Saudi Arabia following flight disruptions, prompting the state government to coordinate with the Indian Embassy, the Consulate General of India and airlines to support their safe and early return.
Deputy Chief Minister Dr G. Parameshwara said the Karnataka government was in constant touch with the Indian Embassy in Riyadh and the Consulate General of India in Jeddah to ensure the safety of the affected pilgrims and provide necessary assistance. The government is also coordinating with airlines and tour operators involved in the travel arrangements.
The state has activated dedicated helplines through the Karnataka Haj Department and the State Emergency Operations Centre to assist stranded pilgrims and their families. Officials have asked affected travellers and relatives seeking information or assistance to contact the designated numbers.
Parameshwara appealed to the pilgrims to remain calm and follow local safety instructions. He said that in the event of an aerial attack, they should remain indoors and avoid photographing, recording or sharing videos of security incidents, as such actions may violate local laws.
The Deputy Chief Minister also advised Kannadigas planning to travel to Saudi Arabia, particularly for Umrah, to exercise caution, monitor official advisories and verify flight schedules with airlines and tour operators before travelling to the airport. The advice places responsibility on travellers and operators to confirm operational information amid the disruptions.
The Karnataka Haj Department has provided 9483503132 and 7899707775 for assistance. The State Emergency Operations Centre can be contacted at 1070 and 080-22253707. The Indian Embassy in Riyadh has listed +966554412016 and +966542126784, along with a WhatsApp messaging number, +966536216082. A Saudi Arabia toll-free number, 8002471234, has also been shared.
The state government said coordination with diplomatic missions, airlines and tour operators would continue to facilitate the pilgrims’ return. No specific restoration timeline for the affected flights was provided in the statement.
