Hyderabad Umrah Pilgrims | Hyderabad, Oct. 24: Indian Umrah pilgrims, including travellers from Hyderabad, are reportedly facing difficulties in Saudi Arabia following flight cancellations linked to the regional conflict. A pilgrim from Hyderabad has appealed to the Indian government and embassy for assistance, alleging that stranded travellers are struggling with accommodation costs and uncertain return plans.
According to the account shared by a pilgrim who requested anonymity, around 4,000 Indian pilgrims are stranded and awaiting clarity on their return journeys. The pilgrim said the situation around the Grand Mosque, also known as Haram Shareef, remained peaceful, but uncertainty over flights had created anxiety among visitors.
The claims regarding the number of stranded pilgrims and the circumstances of the cancellations have not been independently verified.
Hyderabad Umrah Pilgrims Raise Concerns Over Tour Operators
The Hyderabad pilgrim alleged that some private tour operators were demanding an additional Rs. 2,000 to Rs. 5,000 per day for food and hotel accommodation. According to the account, travellers were being asked to pay extra without receiving clear information about when their flights would resume.
Many pilgrims had reportedly exhausted their planned travel budgets and were facing financial difficulties while waiting to return home.
The pilgrim also raised concerns about travel arrangements made by some agencies. These included alleged discrepancies in advertised hotel distances from Haram, with properties described as being 300 to 400 metres away reportedly taking 15 to 30 minutes to reach on foot amid heavy crowds.
The account further highlighted overcrowding, difficulties keeping children and elderly relatives together, and the cost of assistance for elderly and disabled pilgrims. The pilgrim alleged that wheelchair assistance and physical support during Umrah rituals could cost between 100 and 200 Saudi Riyals in some cases.
These experiences, the pilgrim said, were adding financial stress and affecting visitors’ ability to focus on worship.
Pilgrims Seek Indian Government and Embassy Assistance
The stranded travellers are appealing to the Indian government and the Indian Embassy in Saudi Arabia to help clarify travel arrangements and facilitate their safe return.
They have also urged authorities to address concerns about additional charges imposed by tour operators and ensure that vulnerable pilgrims receive appropriate assistance.
The pilgrim called on Saudi authorities to show care and consideration towards visitors affected by the regional tensions. The appeal also highlighted the difficulties faced by families worried about their relatives’ safety and return.
The immediate priorities for the stranded pilgrims are reliable information about flight schedules, affordable accommodation and food, and assistance in reaching India safely.
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