Tensions Rise in the Middle East: Indian Missions Urge Citizens to Stay Safe

In response to escalating tensions in the Middle East following a joint US-Israel military operation against Iran, Indian missions in the Gulf region have issued urgent advisories for citizens. They are urging Indian nationals to exercise caution, avoid unnecessary travel, and stay informed about local safety guidelines. With airspace closures affecting travel, the missions are actively assisting stranded citizens and providing emergency contact information. This situation highlights the increasing volatility in the region and the importance of safety for expatriates.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 1, 2026, 09:03 IST

Advisories Issued for Indian Nationals in the Gulf Region

Dubai: Indian diplomatic missions across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan have issued urgent advisories for their citizens, advising them to exercise extreme caution and adhere to local authority guidelines.

In light of escalating tensions following a joint US-Israel military operation against Iran, which led to the closure of airspace in the UAE and Iraq, Indian missions are actively assisting citizens stranded at airports.

The Indian Embassy in Iran and the one in Tel Aviv have urged Indian nationals to register for assistance and to remain indoors for their safety.

They have also advised against all non-essential travel within Israel and encouraged citizens to stay updated with local news and emergency alerts.

For emergencies, the Embassy in Tel Aviv has provided a 24/7 helpline at +972-54-7520711 and an email contact (cons1.telaviv@mea.gov.in).

In the UAE, the Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi has similarly advised against unnecessary travel and emphasized the importance of vigilance and adherence to safety protocols.

Both the Embassy and the Consulate General in Dubai are operational and have shared a toll-free number (800-46342) and a WhatsApp contact (+971543090571) for emergencies.

As the situation unfolded, the Indian missions in Riyadh, Amman, Manama, Ramallah, Muscat, and Baghdad also issued similar advisories, providing emergency contact information.

The Indian Embassy in Riyadh has urged citizens to remain alert and follow local safety guidelines, while also confirming that their operations continue as usual.

Emergency contact numbers have been shared, including a 24/7 helpline: 00-966-11-4884697, and a WhatsApp number for urgent queries.

In Iraq, the Indian Embassy has advised nationals to avoid unnecessary travel and stay vigilant, while the Embassy in Jordan has recommended that tourists leave the country promptly to avoid disruptions.

The Indian Embassy in Bahrain has also issued a cautionary advisory, ensuring that they are functioning normally and have provided a 24/7 helpline.

In Palestine, the Representative Office has advised nationals to remain cautious and follow local safety procedures.

The Indian Embassy in Oman has echoed similar sentiments, urging citizens to avoid unnecessary travel and stay informed about safety advisories.

In Qatar, the Embassy continues to operate normally and has provided a helpline for Indian nationals.

In response to the regional tensions, the consul general in Jeddah held a virtual meeting with Indian airlines to discuss support for affected travelers.

The airlines have committed to providing timely updates on flight cancellations and facilitating passenger assistance.

The recent US-Israel attack on Iran marks a significant escalation in regional tensions, following a period of increased pressure from the US government on Tehran regarding its nuclear program.