Nearly 1,000 Indians Fly Home from Doha Due to West Asia Unrest

Nearly 1,000 Indian citizens have flown back to India from Doha in just three days. This is due to growing problems in West Asia.
By Newsroom | Travel, International Relations |

Over the past three days, close to 1,000 Indian nationals, many of whom were in Doha on transit or short-term visits, have departed for India on Qatar Airways flights. This influx of returnees follows escalating tensions in parts of West Asia, prompting an advisory for Indian citizens in Iran to avoid land borders without prior coordination with the Indian Embassy.

West Asia conflict: Nearly 1,000 Indians return from Doha in last three days - 1

Flights Home and Alternative Routes

The Embassy of India in Doha facilitated these departures. A Qatar Airways flight on Monday carried over 300 Indian passengers back to India. Additional flights to New Delhi, Mumbai, and Kochi are reportedly planned for March 10.

West Asia conflict: Nearly 1,000 Indians return from Doha in last three days - 2

For those holding valid Saudi visas, travel via the Salwa border crossing into Saudi Arabia remains an option to board flights to India. This route has been utilized by several Indians since the conflict began. The embassy is also reportedly assisting stranded passengers with requests for Saudi visas.

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West Asia conflict: Nearly 1,000 Indians return from Doha in last three days - 3

Broader Context of Evacuations

The situation in Doha is part of a larger pattern of Indian citizens returning from the Gulf region. Since March 1, over 52,000 Indians have returned from the Gulf, with around 32,000 traveling on Indian carriers. Authorities are continuously monitoring the evolving situation in West Asia and the Gulf, particularly concerning the welfare of Indian nationals caught in transit or on short visits.

West Asia conflict: Nearly 1,000 Indians return from Doha in last three days - 4

Regional Tensions

This wave of evacuations comes against a backdrop of widening conflict in West Asia. Recent developments include Iran's expanded retaliation against US military assets in the region and reports of the Iranian Presidency confirming the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Regional governments have issued condemnations, while air defenses have been engaged in intercepting missiles. Ambiguity surrounds claims of direct targeting of US military bases in the Gulf.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why are nearly 1,000 Indians returning from Doha?
Nearly 1,000 Indian citizens have returned to India from Doha in the last three days. This is happening because of increasing unrest and tensions in parts of West Asia.
Q: How are Indians leaving Doha?
Many Indians are leaving Doha on Qatar Airways flights. Some have already flown back, and more flights to New Delhi, Mumbai, and Kochi are planned for March 10.
Q: Are there other ways for Indians to travel back home from Doha?
Yes, Indians with valid Saudi visas can travel through the Salwa border crossing into Saudi Arabia to catch flights to India. The embassy is also helping with Saudi visa requests for those who are stuck.
Q: Is this happening only in Doha?
No, this is part of a bigger effort. Since March 1, over 52,000 Indians have returned from the Gulf region due to the ongoing conflict in West Asia.
Q: What is causing the unrest in West Asia?
The unrest is due to widening conflict in West Asia, including Iran's actions against US military assets and reports of the Iranian Presidency confirming the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.