- Pakistan has issued a strict advisory to its citizens travelling to Saudi Arabia for Hajj pilgrimage, warning them against begging, unauthorised collection of money and violations of Saudi visa rules.
- The Pakistani Embassy in Saudi Arabia urged Pakistani nationals to comply fully with Saudi laws and the conditions attached to their visas.
- Violations could result in arrest, detention and deportation.
- Saudi authorities have adopted a zero-tolerance approach towards begging and unauthorised solicitation, particularly around the holy sites in Mecca and Medina.
- Visitors from Pakistan have been advised not to provide or use unauthorised local services and to ensure that any financial collection or assistance is carried out through legal channels.
- The embassy emphasized that visitors should remain mindful of their conduct and avoid actions that could lead to legal consequences.
- The embassy's message comes amid social media reactions expressing concern and disappointment over incidents involving Pakistani citizens begging in Saudi Arabia.
- Umrah pilgrims were further encouraged to respect the holy sites and observe Saudi laws and regulations.
Pakistan has issued a strict advisory to its citizens traveling to Saudi Arabia for the Hajj pilgrimage, urging them to avoid begging and unauthorized money collection. The advisory, issued by the Pakistani Embassy in Saudi Arabia, emphasizes compliance with local laws and visa conditions.1
The embassy warned that violations could lead to arrest, detention, and deportation. It highlighted that Saudi authorities have adopted a zero-tolerance approach towards begging and unauthorized solicitation, especially around the holy sites in Mecca and Medina. Visitors are advised to refrain from using unauthorized local services and to ensure that any financial assistance is conducted through legal channels.345
In a video message shared on its official X account, the embassy reiterated the importance of adhering to visa conditions, avoiding overstaying, and respecting local laws. The message comes amid social media reactions expressing concern over incidents involving Pakistani citizens begging in Saudi Arabia. The embassy emphasized that visitors should remain mindful of their conduct to prevent legal consequences.67
Umrah pilgrims are encouraged to respect the holy sites and observe Saudi laws and regulations throughout their stay. The advisory serves as a reminder of the potential repercussions of illegal activities, reinforcing the need for responsible behavior among Pakistani nationals in Saudi Arabia.8
“The Pakistani Embassy in Saudi Arabia warns that violations of local laws, including begging, could lead to arrest and deportation. This advisory comes amid social media concerns over incidents involving Pakistani citizens soliciting money near holy sites.”
Dunya News
