Saudi Arabia’s Hajj Ministry has issued a strong rebuke to Pakistan’s Religious Affairs Ministry over the growing number of Pakistani beggars entering the kingdom on Umrah visas.
The Saudi government has urged Pakistan to take immediate action to curb this practice, warning that it could jeopardize Pakistani pilgrims’ access to the holy sites.
These individuals, often organized by criminal syndicates, are exploiting the religious pilgrimage for personal gain, violating Saudi laws against begging. The Saudi government has threatened stricter visa regulations or even travel restrictions if the problem persists.
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In response, Pakistan’s Religious Affairs Ministry has announced plans for an “Umrah Act” to regulate travel agencies facilitating Umrah trips. The ministry is also working with other government agencies to identify and apprehend those involved in these illegal activities.
Pakistani Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi recently assured Saudi Arabia’s ambassador that the Pakistani government would take decisive measures to address the issue. The Federal Investigation Agency has been tasked with investigating and apprehending the syndicates responsible for sending beggars to Saudi Arabia.
