You do not need to hand cash to a stranger simply because they tell you they lost their wallet, medicine or transport money. If you genuinely want to help, use a safer method such as directing them to official assistance or making charity through an authorized donation channel.
Saudi Public Security actively warns against begging and advises people to report beggars rather than encouraging the practice through direct cash payments. In Makkah, the official reporting number is 911.
Does This Mean Everyone Asking for Help Is a Scammer?
No.
Someone may genuinely be in difficulty.
The problem is that you usually cannot verify a stranger’s story immediately.
That is why the safest approach is to help without exposing yourself to unnecessary risk.
For example, instead of handing over cash, you might:
- direct them to security staff
- help them find an information desk
- point them towards official support
- offer to purchase a small necessary item directly
- donate through an authorized charity platform
Saudi authorities specifically encourage charitable donations through official donation platforms so that assistance reaches genuine beneficiaries.
What If They Say They Lost Their Wallet?
If somebody genuinely lost their wallet, official services can help them.
You can direct them towards security personnel or one of the guest-care centers.
The authority responsible for the Two Holy Mosques currently operates guest-care centers that provide guidance and lost-property services to pilgrims.
A person with a genuine lost-property problem therefore has better options than asking random pilgrims for large amounts of cash.
What If They Ask Me to Withdraw Money From an ATM?
Do not allow a stranger to pressure you into:
- withdrawing cash
- transferring money
- entering your banking app
- showing your card balance
- handing over your phone
If the request starts becoming aggressive or suspicious, walk away and move towards a staffed public area.
In Makkah, security incidents and begging can be reported through 911.
Is It Safe to Carry Cash Around the Haram?
Carry only what you reasonably expect to need.
You do not need to take your entire travel budget into Tawaf.
Saudi Arabia widely supports card payments, so many pilgrims combine a small amount of cash with their debit or credit card.
Our guides on how much cash to carry in Saudi Arabia and keeping cash and valuables safe during Tawaf explain this in more detail.
What If I Really Want to Help the Person?
You can still show compassion without giving unrestricted cash.
For example, if someone says they need food, you could buy food directly.
If they say they are lost, help them reach security or a service desk.
If they say they lost their wallet or phone, direct them to an official lost-property point.
Helping wisely does not mean assuming everybody is dishonest. It means protecting yourself while still responding responsibly.
What Should UK Pilgrims Remember?
Makkah is a deeply spiritual place, and pilgrims naturally feel generous there.
That generosity is valuable, but it should still be combined with common sense.
Do not let guilt, pressure or urgency force you into a financial decision you cannot verify.
