RIYADH — Saudi authorities threatened Thursday, June 26, to expel non-Muslim foreigners who eat, drink or smoke in public during the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan, which begins this weekend.

The interior ministry urged non-Muslims to “respect the feelings of Muslims by refraining from eating, drinking or smoking in public places, streets and at work.”

“They are not excused for being non-Muslim,” said the statement carried by SPA state news agency, adding that “labor contracts stipulate respect for Muslim rites.”

“Those who violate (that)… will face the necessary measures, including terminating work contracts and being deported,” the statement added.

Oil-rich Saudi Arabia hosts more than 9 million foreigners, mostly Asians.