Indian Embassy Issues Urgent Safety Directives for Nationals in Saudi Arabia Amid Houthi Threat
The Indian Embassy in Riyadh has issued urgent safety protocols for citizens in Saudi Arabia following recent Houthi rebel drone and missile attacks.
POLICY WIRE — Dubai, UAE — The Indian Embassy in Riyadh issued a formal advisory on Sunday, October 18, 2026, urging all Indian citizens residing in Saudi Arabia to strictly adhere to updated safety protocols. These measures follow the activation of the National Early Warning Platform for Emergencies in response to escalating security threats posed by Yemen-based Houthi rebels.
Authorities have instructed residents to maintain composure and prioritize immediate shelter upon receiving an emergency alert. Individuals are advised to retreat to interior rooms within buildings, ensuring they remain well away from windows, glass surfaces, balconies, and rooftops until the threat has officially subsided.
For those caught outdoors, the embassy recommends seeking refuge inside the nearest structure or positioning oneself behind a sturdy, protective barrier. The public is further cautioned to avoid crowded locations, steer clear of high-risk zones, and refrain from capturing photographs or videos of the incidents.
Motorists who receive an alert while operating a vehicle are directed to pull over safely to the side of the road. Drivers should ensure their vehicles are positioned away from high-rise structures and bridges to minimize risk.
Emergency contact protocols have been clarified for those in distress. Residents in Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province should dial 911, while those in other regions of the kingdom should contact 998. Citizens are encouraged to monitor official government channels for ongoing updates.
This heightened state of alert follows a series of drone and missile strikes attributed to Houthi rebels. A particularly lethal attack occurred on October 10 near Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport, resulting in the death of one Indian national and multiple injuries.
In the wake of the October 10 tragedy, the Indian Embassy has repeatedly emphasized the necessity of following local directives. This includes a strict prohibition on filming or disseminating media related to active security events to ensure the safety of the community.
Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)