Indian Pilgrims Stranded in Saudi Arabia After Attacks
Thousands of travelers remain stuck abroad as airlines cancel flights following recent Houthi missile strikes.
Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Middle East
Around 4,000 Indian pilgrims are stranded in Makkah and Madina after airlines suspended services to Saudi Arabia. The travel disruption follows recent Houthi rebel missile attacks on major regional airports.
Why it matters
The cancellations have left thousands without return transport after travel agents abandoned them in the region. Carriers including IndiGo, Akasa Air, and Air India halted operations due to the security threats posed by ongoing strikes.
Official reports confirm 13 deaths and over 300 injuries from the October 11 attack at King Khalid International Airport, with 11 Indian nationals among the injured. A subsequent strike on October 21 at Dammam airport resulted in two deaths, including one Indian citizen.
The players
IndiGo
This major Indian low-cost airline operates extensive international routes connecting various Indian cities to destinations across the Middle East.
Air India
As the flag carrier airline of India, this entity manages significant long-haul and regional traffic including many pilgrimage-related flights.
Mohammed Yousuf Ali
He was an Indian national who died during the October 11 missile attack at King Khalid International Airport.
Shaik Saeed
He is an Indian national who sustained injuries during the October 11 airport missile strike.
The details
Houthi rebels launched targeted missile attacks against Saudi Arabian aviation hubs, prompting carriers to cancel scheduled flights. Many pilgrims currently in Makkah and Madina were left without assistance after their travel agents departed.
Timeline
October 11, 2026: Missile attack occurred at King Khalid International Airport.
October 21, 2026: Missile attack occurred at Dammam airport.
Travel Outlook
This disruption follows the pattern of travel insecurity established by the 2026 Houthi airport missile strikes. It marks a significant shift in regional accessibility as carriers prioritize security over scheduled operations.
Travelers currently in or planning trips to Saudi Arabia should monitor official embassy alerts regarding airspace safety and carrier availability. It is recommended to maintain contact with travel organizers and check the status of flights directly with airlines before heading to airports.
The takeaway
Travelers should prioritize securing verifiable contact information for their airline and national embassy when visiting high-risk conflict zones. Ensuring you have an independent way to monitor flight statuses can prevent being abandoned by third-party agents during security disruptions.
Further reading
Find more regional travel updates in the Middle East section.
