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Riyadh issues safety advisory as Houthi attacks target airports and disrupt air travel
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The Embassy of India in Riyadh has advised Indian nationals across Saudi Arabia to remain alert, stay indoors when necessary and follow instructions issued by local authorities through official channels amid a worsening security situation in the Kingdom
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In an advisory issued on Thursday, the embassy also urged Indian citizens not to circulate or repost videos or news related to the ongoing events. It said the guidance was intended to help nationals remain safe and avoid the spread of unverified information.
The advisory comes as Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthi group has intensified missile attacks on Saudi Arabia, including strikes targeting airports and other infrastructure. Reuters reported that smoke was seen rising from an aircraft at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh on Thursday, while Saudi authorities said debris from an intercepted missile damaged a kindergarten and a medical facility. Three people have been killed in attacks on Saudi airports this week, according to Saudi authorities.
The Indian government has also condemned attacks targeting Abha International Airport and Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport, describing attacks on civilian infrastructure as unacceptable and expressing condolences to those killed and injured
The security situation has also affected air travel between India and Saudi Arabia. An Air India flight from Delhi to Riyadh turned back on Thursday after reports of an attack near the airport. Air India and Air India Express have suspended flights to and from Riyadh until October 10, with affected passengers offered refunds or rescheduling. Akasa Air also cancelled its Kochi-Riyadh services scheduled for October 8.
Despite the security concerns, the Indian Embassy in Riyadh, Consulate General in Jeddah and VFS services are continuing to operate normally. The embassy said further advisories would be issued as necessary.
