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Mumbai : Nearly five thousand Umrah pilgrims from Mumbai and other parts of Maharashtra are stranded in Saudi Arabia due to suspension of flights amid rising tensions in the Gulf region. Recent international developments, particularly the alleged attacks by the US and Israel against Iran, have created uncertainty and disrupted air connectivity and affected the return of pilgrims.

According to sources, most of these pilgrims had completed their 15-day Umrah pilgrimage and were preparing to return home, but due to sudden changes in operations and cancellation of many international flights, they are unable to travel back. Many of these people are currently in Jeddah and Mecca and waiting for further updates. Besides, the departure of new pilgrims during the last two Asharas of Ramadan has also been stopped, which has further increased the concerns of people planning Umrah pilgrimage.

All India Hajj and Umrah Yatra Association General Secretary Imran Alvi told reporters that about five thousand pilgrims from Maharashtra are currently waiting for flights in Saudi Arabia. If pilgrims coming from other states are also included, the total number becomes higher. He said that the situation is still uncertain and tourism operators are in constant touch with the pilgrims to update them on the latest developments.

He further said that as per the instructions issued by the Government of India, services operated by Air India, SpiceJet, Indigo and other airlines to Saudi Arabia have been temporarily suspended. Meanwhile, the last Saudi Arabian Airlines flight departed for Jeddah this afternoon, further reducing the air connectivity available between the two countries. According to sources, arrangements for accommodation and food for pilgrims stranded in Saudi Arabia are currently being made by tourism operators and local coordinators. However, he warned that financial and logistics challenges could increase if air services do not start soon. The families of many pilgrims have urged the authorities to intervene and ensure the safe and speedy return of their relatives.

Alvi expressed hope that the ongoing crisis in the Gulf region will be resolved as soon as possible and air flights will resume soon so that all pilgrims can return safely. He said the Indian government is closely monitoring the developments at the diplomatic level and is in touch with the countries concerned in the hope of a positive resolution. Meanwhile, families of the pilgrims in Mumbai and other parts of Maharashtra are eagerly awaiting their return, with hopes that normal flight services will resume soon and their loved ones will return home safely.