Saudi-Houthi Conflict Disrupts Umrah Travel: Around 500 Gujarat Pilgrims Stranded in Saudi Arabia

Around 500 pilgrims from Gujarat are stranded in Saudi Arabia after escalating conflict in the Gulf disrupted flight operations, forcing airlines to cancel services and leaving Indian travellers struggling to secure alternative tickets home.

The disruption follows drone and missile attacks by Houthi rebels from Yemen targeting oil refineries and international airports. The situation has affected flights operated by Air India, IndiGo and Akasa Air, creating difficulties for Indians who had travelled to Saudi Arabia for the Umrah pilgrimage.

Several pilgrims who had booked 15-day packages are now facing an indefinite extension of their stay, particularly in Jeddah, as they are unable to find available flights back to India.

Flight Cancellations Leave Pilgrims Unable to Return

Airlines have reportedly offered refunds for cancelled tickets, but passengers have received little further assistance in arranging alternative travel.

With new tickets difficult to secure amid the disruption, pilgrims have been forced to extend their stay in Saudi Arabia. The situation has caused anxiety among families in Gujarat, particularly those whose elderly relatives and children are among the stranded travellers.

The unexpected extension has also placed additional financial pressure on pilgrims, many of whom had planned their travel expenses around a fixed 15-day itinerary.

Gujarat Tour Operators Struggle to Arrange Accommodation

Tour operators and organisers who arranged the Umrah packages are facing mounting pressure as they try to manage the extended stay of pilgrims.

With flights disrupted, organisers are working to arrange hotel accommodation, meals and extensions of visa validity in accordance with Saudi regulations.

The additional expenses have increased the financial burden on tour operators, while families back home are seeking updates and assistance for their stranded relatives.

Pilgrims Being Routed Through Riyadh and Dammam

Amid the disruption, efforts are being made to bring Indian pilgrims home through alternative flight connections.

Some travellers are being routed from Jeddah through Riyadh and Dammam before flying to Indian cities, including Mumbai and Delhi.

However, the availability of connecting flights remains a challenge as the regional situation continues to affect air travel.

Umrah Tours Suspended Until Flight Operations Stabilise

With the conflict continuing to disrupt flights, Umrah tour operators have cancelled upcoming tours until normal air services resume.

The situation is expected to take another 15 to 20 days to stabilise, according to the assessment provided by tour organisers. Further tours can resume only after flight operations return to normal.

Until then, pilgrims already in Saudi Arabia and their families in Gujarat remain dependent on alternative travel arrangements and updates on the restoration of regular services.