Saudi Arabia: At least 45 people are feared dead after a bus carrying Umrah pilgrims collided with a diesel tanker near Medina, with approximately 42 victims being Indian nationals, according to local Saudi Arabian media.
Saudi Arabia Accident Details
The bus was traveling from Mecca to Medina when the crash occurred around 1:30 AM IST near Mufrihat. Most passengers were from Hyderabad in Telangana, Khaleej Times reported. The group was returning from Mecca after completing rituals when the accident happened.
According to Gulf News, many passengers were asleep during impact, leaving little escape opportunity when the bus burst into flames. At least 11 women and 10 children were among victims, though authorities are still verifying numbers.
Rescue teams reported the bus was completely charred, making victim identification extremely challenging. Reports claimed Mohd Abdul Shoiab survived and is hospitalized, though his condition is unknown.
Telangana Government Response
The Telangana government contacted the Indian Embassy in Riyadh, with Chief Minister Revanth Reddy asking officials to coordinate closely with embassy authorities. A control room was established at the state secretariat, with the Resident Commissioner collecting victim details.
Hon’ble CM Revanth Reddy Expresses Shock Over Saudi Bus Tragedy; Sets Up Control Room for Assistance
— IPRDepartment (@IPRTelangana) November 17, 2025
Chief Minister Shri A. @revanth_anumula expressed deep shock over the tragic bus accident involving Indian pilgrims travelling from Mecca to Madina in Saudi Arabia. Initial… pic.twitter.com/ILT7Xy1o44
The government issued control room numbers: +91 7997959754 and +91 9912919545 for family assistance. The Indian embassy in Jeddah established a 24×7 control room with toll-free helpline (8002440003).
PM Modi condoles
Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated: “Deeply saddened by the accident in Medinah involving Indian nationals. My thoughts are with the families who have lost their loved ones. I pray for the swift recovery of all those injured. Our Embassy in Riyadh and Consulate in Jeddah are providing all possible assistance. Our officials are also in close contact with Saudi Arabian authorities.”
Deeply saddened by the accident in Medinah involving Indian nationals. My thoughts are with the families who have lost their loved ones. I pray for the swift recovery of all those injured. Our Embassy in Riyadh and Consulate in Jeddah are providing all possible assistance. Our…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 17, 2025
Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi confirmed 42 Umrah pilgrims were on the bus. He remains in contact with Abu Mathen George, Deputy Chief of Mission at the Indian Embassy in Riyadh. Reports indicated around 16 pilgrims who traveled through two Hyderabad-based agencies, Al-Meena Hajj and Umrah Travels, were among those killed.
Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar stated: “Our Embassy in Riyadh and Consulate in Jeddah are giving fullest support to Indian nationals and families affected by this accident. Sincere condolences to the bereaved families. Pray for the speedy recovery of those injured.”
