Saudi Arabia Safety Advisory: India Warns Nationals Against Rooftops, Balconies Amid Houthi Attacks

India has urged its nationals living in Saudi Arabia to follow updated emergency safety instructions issued by local authorities, including avoiding rooftops, balconies, windows and open areas during security alerts, amid heightened concerns following drone and missile attacks by Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels. The Indian Embassy in Riyadh issued the reminder on October 18, 2026, advising citizens to remain indoors and move to a safe location until the threat passes.

Saudi Arabia Safety Advisory: What Indians Need to Know

According to the updated guidelines, people who receive an emergency warning should remain calm and immediately move to the nearest safe place inside a building. An interior room away from windows and glass is recommended. Indian nationals have been advised not to leave their homes or buildings until authorities indicate that the danger has passed. They should also avoid open spaces, rooftops and balconies, where they could be exposed to potential hazards during aerial attacks. Donald Trump Says US ‘May’ Join Saudi Strikes on Houthis.

Those who are outdoors when an alert is issued should enter the nearest building or take shelter behind a solid barrier. Residents have also been asked to stay away from crowds and dangerous areas and refrain from photographing incidents linked to the security situation.

What to Do During an Emergency Alert While Driving

The safety instructions also cover motorists who receive an emergency warning while travelling. They have been advised to pull over to the side of the road, keeping away from bridges and high-rise buildings, and follow instructions issued by Saudi authorities. For emergencies, people can call 911 in the regions of Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh and the Eastern Province. The emergency number for other parts of Saudi Arabia is 998. Indian nationals have been urged to rely on official channels for updates and follow the directions of the competent authorities.

Riyadh Airport Attack Raises Security Concerns

The fresh advisory follows a deadly attack on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh on October 10. The incident killed an Indian national, Mohammed Yousef Ali, and left several other people injured, including Indian citizens. The attack has added to concerns over the safety of civilians and critical infrastructure in Saudi Arabia amid escalating hostilities involving the Houthis. India had previously condemned attacks targeting civilian infrastructure and urged that such strikes cease. Saudi Arabia Vows Yemen’s Houthis Will Face ‘Consequences’ Following Escalating Attacks.

The embassy had also cautioned Indian nationals against filming, publishing or sharing photographs, videos and other information related to the ongoing incidents. The latest instructions reinforce the need to follow local authorities' directions and rely on official channels for safety updates.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 18, 2026 05:44 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).