Second Indian Dies After Riyadh Airport Missile Strike
Shaikh Sayeed, an Indian national, has died after sustaining injuries in the Houthi missile strike on Riyadh's King Khalid International Airport.
The death of Shaikh Sayeed, a 36-year-old Indian national, has been confirmed following a prolonged battle for life after the Houthi missile strike on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh.
Sayeed, who had worked at a Starbucks outlet within the airport for nearly 12 years, passed away on November 4, 2026, after spending 25 days in the intensive care unit.
The Details of the Airport Attack
The tragedy unfolded at approximately 3:00 pm on October 10, when a projectile struck the airport terminal. The impact caused sections of the roof to collapse, resulting in widespread destruction and injuring more than 300 people.
Sayeed, hailing from the Sailani Baba Colony in Kamareddy, Telangana, sustained severe injuries during the strike. The Indian Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Shri Vipul, has officially confirmed the death and extended condolences to the bereaved family.
Rising Death Toll Amid Regional Conflict
The missile attack, which Saudi authorities have attributed to the Iran-backed Houthi militia, has brought the total death toll to 14. The casualties include:
- Four Saudi citizens
- Ten foreign nationals, including two Indians, two Bangladeshis, and one individual each from the United States, Egypt, Jordan, Syria, Palestine, and Sudan
This incident is part of a larger escalation in regional security that began in February 2026. According to the Indian Ministry of External Affairs, a total of 22 Indian nationals have been killed in the broader regional conflict so far.
Other Indian Casualties and Hospital Status
Sayeed is the second Indian national to die following the October 10 strike. The first victim was Mohammed Yousuf Ali, a 46-year-old IT professional from Mehdipatnam, Hyderabad. Mr. Ali died after a roof collapse while he was traveling to Medina for Umrah; he was interred in Riyadh on October 12.
Regarding other injured Indian nationals, the medical situation remains critical for some:
- One Indian national from Kerala remains in the intensive care unit in stable condition.
- Another Indian national is currently undergoing treatment in a regular hospital ward.
Family Support and Embassy Assistance
Shaikh Sayeed is survived by his wife and three children—two daughters and one son—all residing in Telangana. His two brothers, who are also employed in Riyadh, are currently coordinating funeral arrangements in the city with the assistance of the Indian Embassy.
As regional security concerns persist, the Indian Embassy continues to maintain 24/7 helplines to provide support and information to the Indian expatriate community.