India Urges Citizens In Saudi Arabia To Stay Cautious After Houthi Missile Attacks, Warns Against Filming Interceptions

RIYADH / NEW DELHI: India has urged its citizens in Saudi Arabia to remain cautious after Saudi air defences reportedly intercepted 11 ballistic missiles, one cruise missile and two drones in less than 12 hours amid escalating Houthi attacks.

 The Indian Embassy in Riyadh on Sunday advised its nationals to follow local rules and refrain from filming or sharing videos of missile interceptions and impact sites, cautioning that violations could invite legal action.

“The Indian community residing in Saudi Arabia is requested to abide by local rules and regulations,” the Embassy said on X, while reposting a notification issued by the Directorate of Saudi Civil Defence.

“Filming, publishing, or sharing information related to countering missiles and drones and their impact sites exposes you to legal liability,” the Saudi Civil Defence notification said.

The advisory comes amid escalating tensions in the region due to a series of drone and missile attacks targeting civilian infrastructure by Yemen’s Houthis.

 On Saturday, the Saudi-led coalition said air defences had intercepted and destroyed a ballistic missile launched towards Riyadh. Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport was preparing to resume domestic and international flight operations on Sunday after a temporary closure.

Flight Disruptions:

Meanwhile, Air India and Air India Express flights to Riyadh and Dammam remain suspended until November 7, while Jeddah services are halted until October 31, the Embassy said on Saturday.

“Air India and Air India Express flights to and from Riyadh and Dammam will remain suspended until 7 November 2026, while services to and from Jeddah will remain suspended until 31 October 2026,” the mission posted.

The Consulate General of India in Jeddah said its 24x7 control rooms in Jeddah and Makkah continued to assist affected Indians with food, essential medicines and other immediate requirements, with support from community associations and volunteers.

 The mission added it was in regular contact with Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and Ministry of Foreign Affairs to address difficulties caused by flight disruptions, particularly those involving visa validity and delayed departures.