India opens Makkah control room for pilgrims amid flight disruptions

The Indian Consulate in Jeddah has established an additional control room in Makkah to assist Indian nationals, specifically Umrah pilgrims, facing flight disruptions between India and Saudi Arabia.

The travel chaos follows increased regional tensions in the Gulf after Yemen-based Houthi rebels launched drone and missile strikes against civilian infrastructure in Saudi Arabia. Some domestic operators have grounded services through the country until October 17, though certain regional carriers remain on schedule.

The new assistance desk is located at the Indian Haj Pilgrims Office in Makkah. This complements the existing 24-hour control room in Jeddah. The consulate has advised travelers to verify flight statuses with airlines and coordinate with travel agents or tour operators regarding cancellations, rescheduling, and accommodation.