Pakistan has issued a strict warning to its citizens travelling to Saudi Arabia for Umrah, urging them to obey local laws and visa conditions and warning that begging or unauthorised fundraising could lead to arrest, detention and deportation.
The Pakistani Embassy in Saudi Arabia issued the advisory to incoming Umrah pilgrims and workers, highlighting what it described as Saudi Arabia’s zero-tolerance approach to begging and unauthorised solicitation, particularly around the holy cities of Mecca and Medina.
The embassy also shared an AI-generated video on social media titled “Important Message for All Umrah Pilgrims and Workers Coming from Pakistan”. The video depicts an AI-generated man being arrested by Saudi authorities and taken to jail, illustrating the potential consequences of violating local laws.
Pakistani nationals were warned against begging, unauthorised collection of money and the use or provision of services that are not legally permitted.
The advisory specifically cautioned against activities including unofficial wheelchair services, hairdressing or barbering services, unauthorised monetary transactions and lending money to others.
Pilgrims were also told to ensure that any collection, transfer or provision of financial assistance is conducted through legally authorised channels.
The embassy reminded Pakistani visitors that they must strictly comply with the terms and duration of their Saudi visas.
They were warned not to overstay or undertake activities outside those permitted under their visa category.
The warning comes amid reports of Pakistani nationals being detained in Saudi Arabia over alleged begging and other unauthorised activities.
Saudi Arabia introduced a one-year multiple-entry Umrah visa in July, with the visa valid for 365 days from the date of issuance. Under the applicable rules, holders can stay in Saudi Arabia for a total of up to 90 days and are required to book an approved service package for each visit.
Umrah is a voluntary Islamic pilgrimage that can be undertaken throughout the year. Its rituals include entering Ihram, performing Tawaf around the Kaaba, walking between Safa and Marwa, and shaving or trimming the hair.
Hajj, by contrast, is one of the five pillars of Islam and takes place during specific dates in the Islamic month of Dhu al-Hijjah. It is obligatory once in a Muslim’s lifetime for those who are physically and financially able to undertake the pilgrimage.
Last year, 1,673,320 pilgrims performed Hajj, including 1,506,576 international pilgrims who travelled to Saudi Arabia from outside the kingdom.
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