The Indian Embassy in Bahrain has shared an advisory with guidance for Indian nationals in the Kingdom. The embassy confirmed it is continuing to function as usual and encouraged citizens to stay updated through official channels and local authorities.
The advisory also outlines a procedure to help Indian nationals who have been unable to leave Bahrain following the closure of the Kingdom’s airspace on February 28. Many travellers on tourist or short-term visas have been waiting to return home since.
The embassy’s 24/7 helpline numbers are +973 3941 8071 and +973 3840 0433.
The embassy is coordinating with its counterpart in Riyadh to arrange transit through Saudi Arabia. Officials in Riyadh are working with Saudi authorities to secure individual transit visa approvals. Priority is being given to those on tourist or short-term visas.
Indian nationals with a confirmed air ticket for onward travel to India should email wel2.bahrain@mea.gov.in to start the process. The embassy in Bahrain will refer requests to the Embassy of India in Riyadh.
Once approved, travellers will need to present a Note Verbale (a formal note) from the Embassy of India in Riyadh to Saudi immigration at the border checkpoint. The Saudi transit visa is valid for 72 to 96 hours, and travellers must depart Saudi Arabia for India within that window. The embassy recommends planning the journey to the checkpoint during daytime hours.
READ MORE: Gulf Air’s Repatriation Flights: Here’s What You Need to Know
Subscribe Now