The Indian Embassy in Doha has issued a fresh advisory urging Indian nationals in Qatar to adhere to guidelines from local authorities, especially the Ministry of Interior. The embassy is also sharing advisories from Qatari authorities on its social media platforms. Indian travelers are advised to stay in touch with airlines as Qatar’s airspace remains closed, leading to temporary flight suspensions. The Ministry of Interior in Qatar has instructed residents to stay in safe places, avoid unnecessary outings, and steer clear of windows and exposed areas due to the current security situation.
Qatar’s Ministry of Interior has extended all categories of entry visas that have expired or are near expiration for one month, with the possibility of further extensions based on developments since February 28. In case of emergencies, Indian nationals in Qatar can exit through the Salwa land border crossing to Saudi Arabia. Those with US, UK, or Schengen visas can obtain visas on arrival in Saudi Arabia, while others can apply for Saudi visas following proper procedures. The Indian Embassy is facilitating the acquisition of temporary transit visas for Saudi Arabia for stranded Indian nationals in Qatar who have confirmed tickets for onward travel. Helpline numbers have been provided for queries.
The advisory from the Indian Embassy follows reports of Qatar intercepting drones and missiles within its borders amid the ongoing conflict in West Asia. Qatar’s Ministry of Defence announced the successful interception of a drone attack on Al-Udeid Air Base by the Qatar Emiri Air Defence Forces. Qatar faced missile attacks, including 14 ballistic missiles and four drones from Iran, with Qatar’s Armed Forces intercepting most of them. The Ministry assured that Qatar’s military is fully equipped to defend its sovereignty and respond to external threats, urging the public to remain calm, follow official instructions, avoid rumors, and rely on credible sources for information.
Qatar’s Ministry of Defence previously reported drone and missile attacks from Iran, with successful interceptions by Qatar’s military forces. The country faced multiple drone and missile threats, with Qatar’s defense forces effectively neutralizing the attacks.
