Indian pilgrims killed in tragic bus accident in Saudi Arabia laid to rest

November 22, 2025

Riyadh: The last rites of the 45 Indian Umrah pilgrims who lost their lives in a tragic bus accident in Saudi Arabia were performed on Saturday in Medina, the Indian Embassy confirmed.

The victims — 17 men, 18 women and 10 children — were all from Hyderabad, with most belonging to the areas of Asif Nagar, Jhirra, Mehdipatnam and Toli Chowki. They died after the bus carrying them collided with an oil tanker and caught fire early Monday morning near Medina.

According to the Indian Embassy in Riyadh, Andhra Pradesh Governor S. Abdul Nazeer took part in the funeral prayers held at the Prophet’s Mosque, followed by the burial of the mortal remains at the sacred cemetery of Jannat ul Baqi in Medina.

Indian Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Suhel Khan and Consul General in Jeddah Fahad Suri also attended the final rites, standing alongside relatives and grieving community members.

The Embassy reiterated its condolences to the families, calling the accident a deeply tragic incident.

To support affected families, the Indian Consulate in Jeddah established a camp office at the Indian Haj Pilgrims Office in Medina earlier this week, providing assistance and coordinating with Saudi authorities.

Indian Leadership Expresses Grief

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed profound sorrow over the accident, posting on X:
“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.”

He added that the Embassy in Riyadh and Consulate in Jeddah were providing all necessary assistance and were in close coordination with Saudi officials.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also conveyed shock and condolences:
“Deeply shocked at the accident involving Indian nationals in Medinah, Saudi Arabia… Sincere condolences to the bereaved families. Pray for the speedy recovery of those injured.”