Concerns Rise as Saudi Arabia and UAE Deport Pakistani Nationals Over Begging

Post by : Mara Rahim

The international image of Pakistan is under scrutiny as reports surface regarding organized begging and illegal activities involving some of its citizens abroad. Recently, Saudi Arabia has deported nearly 24,000 Pakistanis linked to begging, raising alarms domestically about potential long-term impacts on the nation’s standing. Officials fear these incidents highlight organized networks misusing travel privileges.

In tandem with Saudi actions, the UAE has also strengthened visa regulations for Pakistanis. Officials have indicated that certain visitors from Pakistan have engaged in criminal conduct post-entry. Consequently, tighter scrutiny of visa applications has been instituted. Data from Pakistan's Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) reveals alarming trends, showing over 66,000 individuals were halted at airports in 2025 for suspected connections to illegal migration or organized begging schemes.

FIA Director General Riffat Mukhtar emphasized that these organized groups severely tarnish Pakistan’s global image. The situation isn't confined to Gulf nations; similar issues have emerged in parts of Africa and Europe. Additional misuse of tourist visas has been identified in countries like Cambodia and Thailand. Alongside Saudi Arabia, about 6,000 Pakistani citizens have been repatriated from Dubai this year, while Azerbaijan has expelled nearly 2,500 Pakistani beggars, amplifying governmental concerns.

Tensions with Saudi authorities have been brewing since last year when they officially requested Pakistan to curb the misuse of Umrah visas for begging. The Saudi Ministry of Religious Affairs has cautioned that continued violations could impose severe restrictions on Pakistani Umrah and Hajj pilgrims. Legal experts in Pakistan warn that failing to address these issues may lead to stricter travel limitations and further diminish the country's global stature.