Rising tensions in West Asia have triggered concern among Indian residents and travellers in Gulf countries after a series of Iranian missile and drone strikes targeted locations in the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Bahrain over the weekend. The attacks, which hit areas long considered safe for business and tourism, have led to a sudden increase in people trying to leave the region, including Indian professionals, workers, and visitors.
Travel operators and security agencies report that Saudi Arabia has become a key exit route as flights from some Gulf airports face uncertainty. Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport is functioning normally, making it one of the main transit points for those trying to return to India or travel to Europe and other countries. Private transport companies are arranging road journeys from Dubai and nearby cities to Saudi Arabia, with some travellers undertaking long drives before boarding chartered or commercial flights.
Demand for emergency travel has increased sharply, especially among high-income expatriates and business executives. Charter flight operators say that private jet bookings have surged, with some flights to Europe costing up to $350,000. While such options are limited to wealthy travellers, many Indian residents are exploring commercial routes through Saudi Arabia or other nearby countries as airlines review schedules due to the security situation.
Saudi Arabia’s visa-on-arrival facility for several nationalities has made it easier for travellers to enter the country in emergency situations. This flexibility has helped people who could not get direct flights from the UAE or Qatar to quickly find alternative routes. Travel agencies in the region say enquiries from Indian families have increased as news of the strikes spread across social media.
Tensions escalated further after a drone attack targeted the Ras Tanura oil refining facility operated by Saudi Aramco, one of the world’s most important energy installations. The incident forced a temporary shutdown and raised fears about the safety of oil infrastructure in the Gulf. Saudi authorities confirmed that air defence systems intercepted drones, though officials did not release full details about the source of the attack.
The region has faced similar threats in the past, including the 2019 attacks on major Saudi oil facilities that affected global energy supply. Security experts warn that any further escalation could disrupt travel, business operations, and oil markets, which may also affect fuel prices and airline costs for countries like India.
With thousands of Indians living and working across the Gulf, the situation is being closely watched by families in India, as well as by travel operators and businesses that depend on stable conditions in the region.
