Enhanced Flight Operations from Middle East to India: Update from the Centre
Synopsis
Flight operations from the Middle East to India are on the rise, with significant updates on non-scheduled flights and repatriation efforts. Learn how Indian nationals are being assisted in their travel amid ongoing restrictions.
Key Takeaways
Flight operations from the Middle East to India are increasing.
80 flights expected from the UAE on Wednesday.
Assistance for Indian nationals in various countries.
Over 426,000 passengers have returned since February 28.
Efforts for repatriation of mortal remains are ongoing.
New Delhi, March 25 (NationPress) The situation regarding flights operating from Middle Eastern nations to India is steadily improving, with an increase in the number of flights from the region. In the United Arab Emirates, airlines are continuing limited non-scheduled flights based on operational needs, with approximately 80 flights anticipated to depart on Wednesday from various airports to India, as per an update from the Ministry of External Affairs.
Flights from Saudi Arabia and Oman to India are still active. Moreover, with Qatar's airspace partially open, Qatar Airways is expected to operate around nine non-scheduled commercial flights to India on Wednesday, the announcement noted.
Currently, the airspaces of Kuwait and Bahrain remain closed. Special non-scheduled flights are being conducted from Saudi Arabia by airlines like Jazeera Airways and Gulf Air, which are aiding in the travel of Indian citizens to India.
Indian nationals in Iran are being assisted in their travel to India via Armenia and Azerbaijan. So far, 1,043 individuals, including 717 students and 326 Indian nationals, have successfully crossed out of Iran with the help of the Indian mission, as stated.
Indian citizens in Israel are also being helped to travel back to India through Jordan. Due to restrictions in Kuwait, Bahrain, and Iraq, transit through Saudi Arabia is being facilitated for Indian nationals.
Since February 28, approximately 426,000 passengers have returned to India from the region. Over this period, a total of 2,149 flights, which include both scheduled and non-scheduled flights from Indian and foreign carriers, have been conducted from the Middle East to India.
The Ministry is also extending support for the repatriation of the mortal remains of Indian nationals. The remains of an Indian national who passed away in Riyadh on March 18 have been successfully brought back to India, and the Government is maintaining close communication with the family involved, as mentioned in the statement.
Indian missions in Oman, Iraq, and the UAE are actively communicating with local authorities regarding missing and deceased Indian nationals, ensuring the swift repatriation of mortal remains, the statement concluded.
Point of View
Showcasing efforts by the government to facilitate travel for Indian citizens amid ongoing challenges. The focus remains on supporting nationals in various countries and ensuring their safe return.
NationPress
10 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
How many flights are currently operating from the Middle East to India?
Around 80 flights are expected to operate from various airports in the UAE to India.
What assistance is being provided to Indian nationals in Iran?
Indian nationals in Iran are being assisted in their travel to India via Armenia and Azerbaijan.
Are there any flights from Kuwait and Bahrain to India?
Currently, the airspaces of Kuwait and Bahrain remain closed for flights.
How many passengers have returned to India from the Middle East since February 28?
Approximately 426,000 passengers have returned to India from the region since February 28.
What measures are being taken for the repatriation of mortal remains?
The Ministry is providing support for the repatriation of mortal remains of Indian nationals and is in touch with families.
