In the wake of ongoing conflict in the Middle East, thousands of stranded Pakistani Umrah pilgrims find themselves in a precarious position as flights to their destination have been disrupted. Amidst this chaos, Pakistan’s embassies in Riyadh and Jeddah are working tirelessly to assist affected travellers.
Following strict guidelines from Islamabad, both diplomatic missions have set up round-the-clock helplines and dispatched teams to regional airports to support Pakistani nationals grappling with flight schedule disruptions. As of now, the airspace remains mostly open for operations, though certain areas do carry operational restrictions due to security advisories.
Pilgrims in Jeddah, Makkah, and Madinah are experiencing a stable situation, supported by dedicated teams from Pakistan’s embassies who provide assistance as needed. Assistance hotlines can be reached at the following numbers:
– **Pakistan Embassy (Riyadh)**: Landline +966 011 488 7272, Mobile Numbers/WhatsApp +966 576284980 & +966 560505030.
– **Pakistan Consulate General (Jeddah)**: Landline +966 126689149 and +966 126692371, Mobile Numbers/WhatsApp +966 563870732 & +966 542099348.
The missions are in constant communication with Umrah agencies and airline carriers to address the immediate needs of the affected pilgrims. Efforts include rescheduling cancelled flights and providing accommodation by concerned parties until the rescheduled flights arrive. The Pakistan Missions also closely monitor the evolving situation, coordinating closely with Saudi authorities for timely support and information exchange.
Over the past two days, about 160 stranded Pakistani passengers have been facilitated at various airports in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. As the regional situation remains fluid, missions are continuously monitoring developments and will provide updated guidelines and advice as necessary to assist Pakistani travellers in need.