Dubai: Pakistan has issued a stern warning to its citizens travelling to Saudi Arabia, making it clear that begging is prohibited and can result in serious legal consequences, including arrest, imprisonment and deportation.
The Pakistani Embassy in Saudi Arabia has urged Umrah pilgrims, workers and other Pakistani nationals to strictly follow Saudi laws and regulations. In a video message, the embassy warned that those found begging could face legal action, with some offenders potentially being deported and barred from returning to the Kingdom.
The advisory also cautioned citizens against engaging in other unauthorised activities, particularly around Makkah and Madinah. These include providing wheelchair services without permission, cutting hair or offering barber services without authorisation, distributing donations or financial assistance without approval, and conducting unauthorised financial transactions.
Pakistani citizens have also been advised to exercise caution when lending money or becoming involved in financial dealings with others.
The warning follows reports of Pakistani nationals allegedly being detained in Riyadh in June 2026 over accusations of begging. Pakistani authorities have since stepped up their appeals for citizens to respect Saudi Arabia’s laws and avoid activities that could lead to legal action.
The embassy has specifically urged Umrah pilgrims visiting the Haramain Sharifain — Makkah and Madinah — to concentrate on their religious obligations and refrain from any activity that breaches local regulations.
Saudi Arabia enforces strict rules governing conduct at its religious sites, and visitors are expected to comply with both local laws and administrative instructions.
The Pakistani Embassy has further called on its citizens to maintain responsible conduct while abroad, warning that unlawful activities can have serious consequences for individuals and may also damage Pakistan’s reputation overseas.
The advisory applies not only to Umrah pilgrims but also to Pakistani workers and others travelling to or residing in Saudi Arabia.
The message from the embassy is unequivocal: Pakistani nationals must respect Saudi laws and stay away from begging and other unauthorised activities to avoid serious legal and personal consequences.
