Saudi Arabia Warns Against Begging in Hajj Season

Saudi authorities have renewed their warning against begging and unauthorised fundraising during the Hajj and Umrah seasons, stressing that violators face heavy fines, imprisonment, and — for non-Saudis — deportation. The rules apply across the Kingdom and are enforced with particular intensity in Makkah and Madinah.

All forms of begging are prohibited, whether carried out in person or electronically through social media accounts or online payment links. Anyone who begs, or incites, agrees with, or assists others in begging, faces up to six months in prison and a fine of up to 50,000 SAR, or both. If the activity is part of an organised group, penalties rise to up to one year in prison and a fine of up to 100,000 SAR.

Non-Saudi offenders convicted of begging are deported after serving their sentence and paying fines, and are banned from returning to work in the Kingdom. Spouses and children of Saudi citizens are exempt from deportation. Authorities said intensified campaigns are underway to arrest violators and dismantle organised begging networks.

Unauthorised fundraising — collecting cash or in-kind donations without an official licence — is classified as a major crime. Individuals may face up to seven years in prison and fines reaching 5,000,000 SAR, or up to two years and 500,000 SAR depending on the applicable provision. Unauthorised entities can be fined up to 500,000 SAR, with penalties doubled for repeat offences. Convicted non-Saudis are deported and barred from re-entry except for Hajj and Umrah.

Officials also reminded residents that performing or attempting Hajj without a permit can bring a fine of up to 20,000 SAR, deportation, and a 10-year re-entry ban. Those who help others bypass Hajj rules — including sponsors, landlords, hotel operators, and drivers — risk fines up to 100,000 SAR, deportation, 10-year bans, and confiscation of vehicles used in violations.

The warnings matter for residents and visitors alike, as the holy sites see millions of pilgrims each season. Authorities urge the public to donate only through licensed channels and to report suspected begging or illegal collection.

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