The Bureau of Emigration and Overseas Employment (BEOE) has issued important instructions for Pakistani citizens living in Saudi Arabia or planning to travel there.
The bureau has advised Pakistanis to follow Saudi laws and avoid activities that can lead to legal action or penalties.
What are some important rules for Pakistani citizens?
Pakistanis have been advised not to hand over their passports to their employers or sponsors.
A passport is a personal document. Those whose passports are taken away have been advised to contact the Pakistani embassy or consulate.
Citizens have also been told not to stay in Saudi Arabia after their visa or residence permit expires.
They should also not work for another person or company without permission from their sponsor.
The authorities have warned people against dealing with illegal agents or middlemen. They have also been advised not to try to enter another country through illegal means.
Pakistanis have been asked to avoid harassment of women and any inappropriate behaviour.
Citizens have also been advised not to take part in public protests, strikes or unauthorised gatherings.
They should not photograph sensitive government or security sites.
People have also been asked to avoid unnecessary discussions about politics or other sensitive matters in public places.
What are the rules on drugs and alcohol?
Alcohol, drugs and gambling are strictly prohibited in Saudi Arabia. Pakistani citizens have been told to stay away from these activities.
The authorities have issued a special warning about drug-related crimes. Such offences can result in very strict punishment.
People travelling to Saudi Arabia have also been advised to check the rules before carrying medicines. They should make sure they have the required prescription and documents.
Citizens have also been told not to carry banned items or material that could cause religious tensions.
What are the social media rules?
The bureau has advised Pakistanis to be careful about what they post and share online.
Citizens have been told not to share content against the Saudi government or royal family.
They have also been warned against sharing insulting content about religion or religious figures.
People should also avoid sharing obscene content. They should not post photos or videos of other people without their permission.
Pakistanis have also been warned against using illegal money transfer systems such as hawala or hundi.
They should not take part in money laundering or suspicious financial transactions. The use of fake documents is also banned.
What are rules for traffic and public behaviour?
The authorities have stressed the need to follow traffic laws. Drivers have been told not to use mobile phones while driving.
People have also been advised to avoid speeding and running red lights. Driving a taxi or other rental vehicle without the required permission is also prohibited.
Pakistanis have been asked not to spit or throw waste in public places. They should also avoid smoking openly during Ramzan.
Citizens have also been warned against making false accusations or taking part in activities that could amount to defamation.
The authorities have further advised people to avoid illegal religious preaching or attempts to convert others.