In a significant logistical achievement, the Government of India confirmed the safe return of over 52,000 Indian nationals from the Gulf region following the recent regional disruptions. Between March 1 and March 7, 2026, commercial airlines and non-scheduled “rescue” flights worked to clear the backlog of stranded passengers during transit or short-term trips. Of these, 32,107 passengers exclusively use Indian carriers, highlighting the high priority the Mission gives to the welfare of NRIs at a time of regional instability.
Thousands of Indians leave UAE and GCC
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and the Embassy of India in Abu Dhabi issued an important update regarding the welfare of over 52,000 Indian nationals who successfully returned home from the Gulf region between March 1-7, 2026. According to the official statement issued by the Government of India, commercial and non-scheduled flights facilitated the travel of these passengers, many of whom were stranded in transit or during short-term visits; 32,107 traveled on Indian carriers. As the situation in West Asia and the Gulf is under constant surveillance, Indian authorities have set up a dedicated special control room and 24×7 helpline to ensure continued protection and assisted return of all remaining citizens.
Flights resume but travel remains unpredictable
The Gulf remains one of the busiest travel corridors for Indian travellers, especially via the UAE, which serves as a global aviation hub connecting Asia, Europe and Africa.While many flights have resumed from airports across the region, airline schedules have been affected by airspace restrictions and temporary closures in parts of West Asia. These disruptions forced airlines to reroute flights and cancel some services early in the week.As operations gradually resume, thousands of passengers have secured seats on flights to Indian cities including Mumbai, Delhi, Kochi and Hyderabad.Airlines operating in the region are monitoring the security situation and adjusting schedules as necessary.
Indian Mission in the Gulf
Indian diplomatic missions across the Gulf are closely monitoring the developments while remaining in touch with local authorities and community groups.The Embassy of India Abu Dhabi and Consulate General of India Dubai are sharing updates with the Indian community and providing guidance to travelers affected by the disruptions.Officials say helplines and support channels remain active for citizens who require assistance related to travel arrangements or documentation.India has one of the largest foreign populations in the Gulf, with more than 3.5 million Indians living in the UAE alone, making growth in the region particularly important for New Delhi.
Why does the Gulf crisis matter to Indians?
The Bay Area hosts millions of Indian expatriates, many of whom work in the construction, healthcare, hospitality, finance and technology sectors. Any disruption in regional stability could immediately impact air travel, employment and cross-border movement, which is why governments closely monitor developments in West Asia.Officials in New Delhi say they maintain constant coordination with Gulf governments and airlines to ensure that Indian citizens can travel safely if needed.As tensions continue to rise, officials say further travel activities may take place depending on how the situation plays out in the region.