The Indian Embassy in Doha on Saturday issued an advisory for Indian nationals traveling from Qatar to India via the Saudi border to ensure that they have a valid passport and approved transit visas.
“Before heading to the border, please make sure you have the following: Passport and approved transit visa: Confirmation that your visa has been approved by the Saudi authorities either through normal procedures or through a temporary transit visa through the embassy,” the alert said.
The Indian embassy’s advisory comes amid an ongoing conflict between the US, Israel and Iran that has pushed Gulf countries to the brink – as Iran presses ahead with its retaliatory air campaign. On Saturday, Qatar said it had intercepted two missiles after explosions were heard in the capital Doha and authorities said they had evacuated some key areas, AFP reported.
Indian Embassy issues instructions
In its advisory, the Indian Embassy in Qatar also advised travelers to ensure they have the following documents and follow the timings and procedures:
– Confirmed Ticket: Confirmed onward ticket from Riyadh or Dammam to destination in India. (Entry may be refused by Saudi immigration without this as it is a 96 hour temporary transit visa).
– Border procedures: By bus/group: Complete immigration procedures at the Ministry of Interior office at the Abu Samra border. By private vehicle (Sedan/SUV): Processing will take place at standard border crossings.
– Transport: It is recommended to use a reliable travel agency. Make sure the vehicle has a valid road permit, vehicle insurance and that the driver has a valid visa.
– The embassy also advised travelers to reach the border between 6:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. to allow for last-minute coordination with Saudi authorities.
Almost 500 Indians are leaving Qatar
On Friday – the Indian Embassy in Doha – announced that – nearly 500 Indian nationals have traveled from Qatar to India and other global destinations on routes operated by Qatar Airways.
The consular office said the passengers were traveling on Qatar Airways to Kochi and other destinations. The airline also facilitated the transportation of the remains of two Indian citizens who died of natural causes along with their accompanying family members to Kochi on humanitarian grounds.
