Is it permissible to donate the sum of 1200 Riyals owed to my friends, knowing that some of them have traveled while others are present, and I am embarrassed to ask them for it, with the intention of repaying the amount later?

You must sincerely repent and return the money to its owners, because keeping it is akin to wrongfully devouring people's wealth. Your need does not justify deceiving them. If the owner of the money is present, you must pay it to him. If he is absent, then contact him and inform him of what he is owed, or await his return to pay him his share. It is not a condition to inform them of the reason for their entitlement to the money if you fear that doing so might lead to harm.