Indian embassies in West Asia have issued separate guidelines for Indian nationals stranded in 14 Gulf countries where the conflict involving the US, Israel and Iran has caused severe disruption, with airspace closed and travel restricted.
In its recent update, the Indian Embassy in Qatar issued a series of instructions to the Indian community in the country urging them to follow local orders and avoid travel as Qatari airspace remains closed.
Here’s what you should do if you’re an Indian stuck in any of the 14 Gulf countries amid the conflict between Israel, the US and Iran.
Follow the instructions
The Indian Embassy in Qatar has asked Indian nationals to follow the news and follow the instructions issued by the authorities.
“The Indian community is requested to carefully monitor the messages and instructions issued by the Qatari authorities through official channels. Residents are advised to rely only on verified and official information,” it said.
The Embassy of India in Abu Dhabi has also issued a similar instruction, asking Indian nationals to follow local guidelines. Other embassies like the one in Dubai have also asked Indian nationals to follow the guidelines issued by the authorities.
Stay inside
The embassy and the Ministry of External Affairs have also asked all Indians to stay inside the conflict as these 14 countries are hit or are at risk of being hit by drones and missiles in the middle of the conflict. An American fighter jet was shot down by friendly fire on Monday, underscoring the precariousness of the situation.
“The Ministry of Interior of Qatar has emphasized the importance of staying indoors and in safe, enclosed areas to ensure the safety of the public. Residents are advised not to go out except in cases of extreme necessity. All Indian citizens are strongly urged to strictly follow these instructions,” the Indian Embassy in Qatar said.
Avoid traveling
It is also advisable to avoid travel as airspace remains closed and only limited air traffic is taking place. Dubai Airport has resumed operations. However, Qatar’s airspace is still closed and flight operations are not underway on these routes.
“Qatar Civil Aviation Authority has confirmed that Qatari airspace remains closed. Operations at Hamad International Airport are therefore suspended and will resume once the authority announces the safe re-opening of the airspace. Passengers are advised not to proceed to the airport and check with their respective airlines for the latest updates,” the Indian Embassy in Qatar said.
Get help from officials
The embassy also stressed the importance of contacting officials and released phone, email and WhatsApp numbers.
“For any immediate assistance, the Embassy of India in Doha can be contacted through its 24/7 Helpline at 974-55647502, Email: cons.doha@mea.gov.in,” read an advisory from the Embassy of India in Doha, Qatar.
The Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi has also released the numbers —
- Toll Free: 800-46342
- WhatsApp: +971543090571
- Email: pbsk.dubai@mea.gov.in and ca.abudhabi@mea.gov.in
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Sunday spoke to his counterparts from several Gulf countries amid rising tensions in West Asia and stressed the need for de-escalation through dialogue and diplomacy.
