New Delhi/Riyadh, April 2 (IANS) The Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main 2026 commenced in Saudi Arabia on Thursday, providing an opportunity for Indian students and expatriate children in the Gulf country to appear for the engineering entrance test without travelling to India.

The Indian Embassy in Saudi Arabia announced the development through its official X handle, stating that arrangements have been made to ensure smooth conduct of the examination.

The Embassy said it is extending full support to the National Testing Agency (NTA) and the designated examination centre to facilitate a hassle-free process for candidates.

In its post, the Embassy said: “JEE (Main) 2026 examinations have officially commenced today in Saudi Arabia, with arrangements in place to ensure smooth conduct of the exams. The Embassy is extending its full support to the National Testing Agency (@NTA_Exams) and the designated examination centre to facilitate the process and assist candidates throughout. Wishing all students the very best for their exams and great success ahead.”

JEE Main 2026 Session 2 is being conducted from April 2 to April 8, 2026, in computer-based test (CBT) mode.

Several Gulf countries, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait, and Bahrain, have been designated as international examination centres by the NTA to cater to the large Indian expatriate community in the region.

The move has been welcomed by Indian parents and students in Saudi Arabia, as it reduces travel time, expenses, and logistical challenges.

Many candidates appearing for the examination are children of professionals working in sectors such as oil and gas, healthcare, education, and IT across various Saudi cities.

The Indian Embassy has assured continued coordination with the NTA and the local examination centre to address any issues faced by candidates during the examination period.

Officials are also expected to remain in touch with students and parents to provide necessary assistance.

JEE Main serves as the gateway for admission to premier engineering institutions, including NITs, IIITs, and other centrally funded technical institutes. Qualifying candidates are also eligible to appear for JEE Advanced for admission to the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs).

The Embassy urged students to remain calm, follow all guidelines, and perform to the best of their ability.

–IANS

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