Pakistan warns citizens against begging during Umrah

Pakistan has warned its citizens traveling to Saudi Arabia for Hajj and Umrah against begging, unauthorized fundraising and violating visa conditions.

The country’s embassy in Saudi Arabia said those involved in such activities could face arrest, detention and deportation from the kingdom.

The warning was issued on Sunday by the Pakistani Embassy in Saudi Arabia for citizens traveling to perform Hajj and Umrah.

As part of the warning, the embassy posted an artificial intelligence (AI)-generated video on social media urging Pakistani pilgrims and workers traveling from Pakistan to Saudi Arabia to comply with local laws.

The video shows Saudi authorities arresting a person for allegedly violating the law.

The embassy said Saudi authorities have adopted a “zero-tolerance” policy toward begging and unauthorized fundraising in and around the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah. Pakistani citizens have therefore been advised to refrain from engaging in unauthorized local services or collecting money illegally. Those who need financial assistance or wish to raise funds must do so through legal channels.

The embassy also instructed citizens to strictly comply with the validity and conditions of their visas. They were warned not to remain in Saudi Arabia after their visas expire or engage in activities not permitted under the type of visa they hold.

Cases of Pakistani citizens becoming involved in begging in Saudi Arabia are not new. Pakistan has previously taken various measures to address the issue.

Before traveling to Saudi Arabia for Umrah, some pilgrims have even been required to sign undertakings promising not to engage in begging. Despite these measures, allegations continue to emerge that some Pakistani citizens become involved in begging after arriving in Saudi Arabia.

Various reports by Saudi authorities have indicated that a significant proportion of those arrested for alleged begging in the Middle Eastern country are Pakistani nationals.

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has also reportedly warned the Pakistani government several times over the issue.