Pakistan Embassy Warns Citizens in Saudi Arabia Against Political Activity
RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA — WEB DESK: The Pakistan Embassy in Saudi Arabia has advised Pakistani citizens living in the kingdom to stay away from political activities, demonstrations and the promotion of political views, while also urging them to exercise caution when using social media.
According to an embassy message reported on Wednesday, Saudi regulations prohibit involvement in political activities. Pakistani nationals were therefore advised to avoid political gatherings, demonstrations, activities organised by political parties and the promotion of political viewpoints while residing in the kingdom.
The embassy also stressed responsible use of social media. It advised citizens not to circulate unverified reports or rumours and to refrain from sharing material that could provoke political or sectarian disputes.
Pakistani nationals were further cautioned against posting material critical of Saudi government policies or content regarded as provocative under local rules. The advisory also urged people not to sensationalise the region’s evolving political and security situation online.
The embassy warned that violations of Saudi laws could expose individuals to legal consequences. According to the advisory as reported by Express Urdu, potential measures may include arrest, fines, imprisonment, deportation and restrictions on re-entering Saudi Arabia.
Separate reporting on Wednesday also carried the embassy warning, saying Pakistani residents had been reminded to strictly comply with Saudi laws governing political and provocative activity.
The advisory comes during a period of heightened regional security concerns and particularly close diplomatic engagement between Islamabad and Riyadh.
Pakistan has issued several official statements in recent weeks supporting Saudi Arabia’s sovereignty and security following Houthi attacks. On September 16, Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry condemned a reported Houthi drone attack targeting Makkah and said Islamabad stood with Saudi Arabia in protecting the holy sites as well as residents and pilgrims.
Earlier, on September 8, Pakistan condemned Houthi attacks on civilian and economic targets in Abha, Khamis Mushait, Jazan and Najran, describing them as violations of Saudi sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s support for Saudi sovereignty and security in a message marking the kingdom’s National Day on Wednesday.
The embassy advisory, however, is directed specifically at Pakistani citizens residing in Saudi Arabia and their compliance with local laws, rather than announcing any new Pakistani domestic restriction on political expression.
Pakistani residents have consequently been advised to remain aware of Saudi regulations and exercise particular caution over political gatherings and social media activity.
