New Delhi: India on Sunday advised its nationals living in Saudi Arabia to comply with local laws and refrain from filming or sharing information related to missile and drone interceptions, including images of impact sites.
The Indian Embassy in Saudi Arabia shared the advisory on social media while reposting a notification issued by the Directorate of Saudi Civil Defence. The warning states that recording or circulating such material could expose individuals to legal consequences.
The advisory comes amid heightened regional tensions following a series of missile and drone attacks targeting civilian infrastructure, attributed in the supplied report to Yemen’s Houthi movement.
What Does The Saudi Civil Defence Advisory Say?
The Indian Embassy urged the Indian community in Saudi Arabia to follow the country’s rules and regulations.
The Saudi Civil Defence notification warned that filming, publishing or sharing information related to efforts to intercept missiles and drones, as well as their impact locations, could result in legal liability.
The advisory highlights the importance of following local restrictions on sensitive security-related material during periods of heightened alert. Indian nationals have been urged to exercise caution and avoid circulating footage or information that could violate Saudi regulations.
Air India, Air India Express Suspend Flights To Riyadh And Dammam
Alongside the advisory, the Indian Embassy shared an update on flight disruptions affecting travel between India and Saudi Arabia.
Air India and Air India Express flights to and from Riyadh and Dammam will remain suspended until November 7, 2026, while services to and from Jeddah will remain suspended until October 31, 2026, according to the airlines’ update shared by the mission.
The suspension may affect passengers with upcoming travel plans, including those awaiting departures from Saudi Arabia or travelling to the Kingdom. Passengers are advised to check directly with their airline for the latest flight status and available travel arrangements.
Indian Consulate Provides Assistance To Affected Travellers
The Consulate General of India in Jeddah said its 24-hour control rooms in Jeddah and Makkah continued to assist Indians affected by the flight disruptions.
Support includes food, essential medicines and other immediate requirements, wherever necessary and feasible. Community associations and volunteers are also helping provide assistance.
The consulate said it remained in regular contact with Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and Ministry of Foreign Affairs to address problems arising from the disruptions, particularly those involving visa validity and delayed departures.
Indian nationals facing travel difficulties can seek assistance through the relevant Indian mission or consulate and should monitor official updates for changes to flight schedules and local advisories.
