March 08, 2026 : The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has announced that more than 52,000 Indian nationals have returned safely to India from the Gulf region between March 1 and March 7 following the outbreak of conflict in West Asia.

According to the MEA, a total of 32,107 passengers travelled on Indian airlines, while the remaining evacuees were brought back on foreign carriers.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the Government of India is closely monitoring the evolving situation in West Asia and the Gulf region, with a strong focus on the safety and welfare of Indian citizens who were stranded while in transit or visiting the region for short durations.

He noted that the partial reopening of airspace in several parts of the region in recent days has allowed both scheduled and special flights to operate, helping facilitate the return of stranded passengers.

Jaiswal added that additional flights are being arranged in the coming days to ensure that all remaining Indian nationals who wish to return can travel back home safely.

The spokesperson also advised Indian citizens currently in the region to strictly follow instructions issued by local authorities as well as advisories released by Indian embassies and consulates.

He said Indian missions in the affected countries have already issued detailed advisories and established round-the-clock helplines to assist nationals facing difficulties due to the ongoing situation.

To coordinate the response, the MEA has also set up a dedicated Special Control Room in New Delhi to track developments and respond to queries from affected individuals and their families.

Jaiswal further advised Indian nationals in countries where commercial flight services are still unavailable to contact the nearest Indian embassy or consulate for guidance on the closest available travel options.