The Indian embassy in Doha has issued a new advisory warning Indian nationals in Qatar to stay home and obey the safety guidelines given by the local authorities. This is the advisory at a time when the country is confronting a sensitive security situation that is associated with broader regional tensions. Authorities have encouraged people to avoid sitting outside their homes and to keep off the windows or areas that are in the open air.
India Advises Nationals In Qatar, Asks The Residents To Remain At Home
Important Advisory pic.twitter.com/yCu4oJFMSa
— India in Qatar (@IndEmbDoha) March 4, 2026
According to the report by Business Today, the embassy had announced the update on March 6 via their official social media. This notice, which was issued at 11:00 am Doha time, requested Indians residing in Qatar to adhere to instructions given by the Qatar Ministry of Interior.
The embassy emphasised that it is the highest priority of the embassy to take care of the safety of the Indian community.
Qatar Airspace Is Still Closed
The advisory also ensured that the airspace of Qatar has not been opened, thus stalling most flights in and out of the country.
The national carrier Qatar Airways will publish a new issue concerning the flight schedules on March 7 at 9:00 am Doha time.
Until that time, the travellers who had plans of travelling should not be out of touch with their airlines to get the latest information. The travel industry has been encouraged to avoid hasty travel plans until airlines have assured them that they are operating.
Visa Privileges Extension Is Announced To The Visitors
Qatari authorities have also implemented a temporary policy of extending the visas of travellers as a way of reducing the pressure on them.
The Ministry of Interior Qatar has increased the entry visa for all types by one month, according to the advisory. It is applicable to the case of visas which have already expired or are about to expire.
This measure has been in effect since February 28 and may be prolonged further depending on the turn of events.
This move will provide relief to most of the foreign visitors and residents who might encounter travel disruptions as a result of the temporary closure of the airspace.
Emergency Exit Via Saudi Arabia
Authorities have found another way to reach the necessary destination, as people who are in dire need to leave Qatar have to.
The exit point of Indian nationals is the Salwa Border Crossing, which joins Qatar and Saudi Arabia.
Nevertheless, the travellers are supposed to satisfy Saudi visa requirements prior to entering the kingdom.
Individuals possessing legitimate US, UK or Schengen visas which were previously used at least once may be granted a Saudi visa at the airport. Before travelling, others have to seek a Saudi visa through the normal procedure.
Assistance To Stranded Transit Passengers
The embassy has also introduced special registration for Indian nationals who are trapped in Qatar on transit.
The system is set to assist travellers to acquire temporary Saudi transit visa to enable them to exit the country via the land border.
To be eligible, passengers will be required to submit:
- Verified forward flight tickets in Saudi Arabia.
- Reproductions of their in-ticket to Qatar.
- Evidence of confirmed left out of Saudi Arabia.
According to the officials, it can take a minimum of 48 hours to process these requests. The travellers will also have to make their own arrangements to travel to the Salwa border and other airports.
Also Read: GCC Flights: Etihad Airways To Qatar Airways, What Is The Status Of Flights?
Embassy Opens 24×7 Helpline
The Indian mission has guaranteed that its citizens need help.
The Indian embassy in Doha is on 24 hours shift to assist the Indian community. The embassy has emergency helpline numbers or an email through which citizens in need can call or write in case of urgent assistance.
Cover Image Courtesy: CanvaPro/SHansche from Getty Images Pro
FAQs
Why did the Indian Embassy issue an advisory in Qatar?
It was issued to ensure Indian nationals follow safety measures during the current regional security situation.
Is there another way to exit Qatar right now? .
Yes, travellers can leave through the Salwa land border crossing into Saudi Arabia if they meet visa requirements
Can travellers currently leave Qatar by flight?
Most flights remain suspended as Qatar’s airspace is temporarily closed.