Saudi Arabia has intensified its efforts to enforce residency, labour, and border security laws, leading to the arrest of 20,749 individuals during a nationwide inspection campaign conducted from February 27 to March 5. The Ministry of Interior announced the large-scale operation, aimed at strengthening regulatory compliance across the Kingdom.

Breakdown of Violations and Arrests

The crackdown revealed:

• 13,871 residency violations

• 3,517 border security breaches

• 3,361 labour law infractions

Security forces also intercepted 1,051 individuals attempting to enter Saudi Arabia illegally. Among them, 54% were Ethiopians, 43% Yemenis, and 3% from other nationalities. Additionally, 90 individuals were caught trying to exit the country unlawfully.

Criminal Facilitation and Legal Actions

Authorities arrested 12 individuals accused of smuggling, transporting, or employing illegal residents, highlighting the government's strict approach toward those facilitating violations. Meanwhile, 40,173 expatriates—including 35,862 men and 4,311 women—are currently undergoing legal proceedings.

• 32,375 detainees have been instructed to secure travel documents from their embassies.

• 2,576 individuals have been directed to arrange departure bookings.

• 10,024 people have already been deported.

Strict Penalties for Facilitators

The Ministry of Interior reiterated that individuals aiding illegal entry, employment, or sheltering of violators could face:

• Up to 15 years in prison

• Fines of up to SR1 million

• Confiscation of any vehicles or properties used in the offence

Saudi Arabia remains firm in its zero-tolerance policy toward violations of residency and labour laws, underscoring its commitment to strengthening border security and maintaining legal workforce regulations.

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