Saudi Arabia Arrests 13,628 in Massive Residency Crackdown
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior has announced a major crackdown on residency, border security, and labour law violations, resulting in the arrest of 13,628 individuals during a single week of nationwide inspections.
Breakdown of Violations and Arrests
The intensive enforcement campaign, which took place between 17 and 23 September 2026, targeted various infractions across the Kingdom. The official figures provided by authorities reveal a significant scale of enforcement:
- Residency Law violations: 6,593 individuals apprehended.
- Border Security Law violations: 3,531 individuals apprehended.
- Labour Law violations: 3,504 individuals apprehended.
During this period, security forces also intercepted 1,197 people attempting to enter the Kingdom illegally. Among those detained for illegal entry, 63 percent were identified as Ethiopian nationals, while 36 percent were Yemeni nationals. Additionally, 27 people were caught attempting to exit the country through unauthorized channels.
Deportations and Ongoing Legal Proceedings
The crackdown has led to large-scale removals and administrative processing. A total of 12,628 violators were deported during the reporting window. To facilitate legal exits, 18,549 individuals were referred to their respective diplomatic missions to obtain necessary travel documents, and another 3,815 were sent to finalize travel arrangements.
As of the report, a significant number of expatriates remain in custody. Currently, 31,398 individuals—comprising 29,018 men and 2,380 women—are undergoing legal procedures related to their infractions.
Severe Penalties for Facilitators and Employers
Authorities are not only targeting violators but also those who assist them. Security forces arrested 22 people accused of providing shelter, transport, or employment to illegal residents.
The Ministry of Interior warned that those found facilitating illegal entry, transport, or shelter face severe consequences, including prison sentences of up to 15 years and fines reaching SR 1 million. Authorities may also confiscate vehicles and properties used in these crimes.
Employers are also under strict scrutiny. Those found employing undocumented workers face significant penalties, including:
- Fines of up to SR 100,000.
- Recruitment bans lasting up to five years.
- Potential imprisonment for responsible managers.
How to Report Violations
The Ministry has urged the public to assist in maintaining law and order by reporting violations. Citizens and residents can contact authorities using the following numbers: