Saudi Arabia Bus Accident: A major accident occurred in Saudi Arabia. On 17 November 2025, at around 1:30 pm Indian time, an Umrah passenger bus going from Mecca to Medina collided with a diesel tanker near Mufrihat. 42 Indian pilgrims are reported to have died in this accident. In the meantime, let us know what protocol is followed to bring the dead bodies back to India.

Role of Indian Embassy

If any such incident happens, the Indian Consulate in Jeddah or the Embassy in Riyadh takes immediate action. The first responsibility of these embassies is to coordinate with Saudi police, hospitals and local civil authorities. They start finding out the identities of the victims and contacting their families in India.

Documents required before return

Some documents are required to bring back the dead body from Saudi Arabia. Local hospitals issue official medical and death certificates and the police prepare an accident report. Now, since such an incident is related to an unnatural death, the police investigation and forensic clearance may take a little more time. The embassy also obtains a consent form from the family of the deceased, stating whether they wish to bring the body back to India or bury it in Saudi Arabia. As soon as the family’s decision is recorded, the passport of the deceased is formally canceled and all documents are sent for final approval.

no objection certificate

After this a No Objection Certificate is issued by the Indian Embassy. This is a document which is necessary to transport the mortal remains. Saudi authorities also issue their own separate no objection certificate after confirming all the formalities.

Preparation and transportation of the body

Saudi Arabia allows international repatriation only after proper body preservation. The body is carefully preserved and sealed in a special coffin designed for air transport. After the preservation of the body and sealing of the coffin certificate is issued, the embassy coordinates with the airlines, customs and immigration department and books the body through air cargo. Most of the bodies are flown to the international airport nearest to the city of the victims.

Cost, Insurance and Embassy Assistance

If the deceased had travel insurance or special Umrah insurance, then the expenses of transportation and preservation of the dead body are borne by the insurance company. Along with this, in cases where the family lacks financial resources, the Indian Embassy can seek assistance through the Indian Community Welfare Fund.

body recovery in india

As soon as the plane lands, the airport authority asks the next of kin to be present with valid identity card and consent documents. After the paperwork is done the body is handed over. The death is then registered at the household level by the local authorities and the family can immediately perform the last rites.

Also read: Major accident in Saudi, bus going to Medina collides with tanker, 42 Indians who went to perform Umrah died