Riyadh, 16 October (H.S.): Indian nationals residing in Saudi Arabia have been urged to remain calm, exercise caution and stay indoors amid concerns over possible aerial attacks. The Indian Embassy said Air India and IndiGo had cancelled their flights from Saudi Arabia following the closure of Riyadh airport, while some Saudi airlines continued to operate services to India.

In a video message issued to the Indian community on Thursday, India’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Suhel Ajaz Khan, said India had condemned attacks targeting civilian facilities and infrastructure in the country. He emphasised that India stood in full solidarity with the people and leadership of Saudi Arabia. He also expressed condolences to the families of those who had lost their lives in the attacks and wished the injured a speedy recovery.

The ambassador said the embassy was in contact with the family of the Indian national who lost his life in the attack at Riyadh airport on October 10. The mission was also maintaining regular contact with the families of the 11 Indian nationals injured in the incident, as well as with the hospital administration.

He said Air India and IndiGo had suspended their flights from Saudi Arabia, while Saudia, flynas and flyadeal continued to operate services to India. Travellers could also consider routes through neighbouring Gulf countries to travel to and from India. However, passengers were advised to verify the latest flight status with their respective airlines before commencing their journeys.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar