Saudi Arabia introduces new law to combat beggary

Whether directly or indirectly, we all know that beggary affects Saudi Arabias economy in general. Of course, technical developments have contributed to this as social media has become a fertile ground for electronic begging and the financial manipulation of others.

With the adoption of the countrys new anti-beggary law, all forms of electronic begging have become prohibited, whether by displaying payment bills, account numbers, or others. This ban includes all forms of beggary, regardless of the reasons or needs provided by the violators.

Per the new law, whoever engages in begging, incites begging, agrees with the beggar, or helps in any way to practice beggary shall be punished. The penalty carries up to a six-month prison sentence, a fine of SR50,000 ($13,329), or both.

Culprits within an organized group who engage in begging could be punished with up to a one-year prison sentence, a fine of $26,659, or both.

The penalties also include deportation from the Kingdom for all expatriates.

Tightening the penalties through a strict law and a clear procedural mechanism will greatly contribute to combating the beggary problem from a social point of view or economic one.

The huge amount of charitable donations seized by beggars, unfortunately, have contributed to creating a loophole that has been exploited by many external parties with destructive goals. Campaigns run by terrorist groups, especially those groups who attack the Kingdom and its people, have taken advantage of this loophole.

I believe there is an appropriate, safe and direct alternative to donate through approved associations and platforms. These beneficiaries must allow and ensure donors a follow-up on a donation and confirm that the amount given was delivered, regardless of its value.

Moreover, the law does not address only the penalties, but it extends to include aftercare. The Saudi Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development will study the social, health, psychological, and economic circumstances of beggars in the Kingdom. After that, the ministry will guide beggars to benefit from the services provided by the government, private, and charitable agencies.

The ministry, in cooperation with the Saudi Ministry of Interior, will also establish a database to record every case of beggary, arrest, and other cases where the ministry provided services. This will spread awareness of the psychological, social, economic, and security risks of beggary.

Dimah Talal Alsharif is a Saudi lawyer and legal consultant. Twitter: @dimah_alsharif