Saudi Arabia records 20,237 residency, labor and border violations in one week

RIYADH, February 8, 2026 (Saudi Arabia Breaking News) – Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior recorded 20,237 violations of residency, labor and border security regulations during inspection campaigns conducted from January 29 to February 4.

The total included 12,687 residency violations, 4,318 border security violations and 3,232 labor-related violations.

Border authorities detained 1,555 people attempting to enter the Kingdom illegally, including 40% Yemenis, 57% Ethiopians and 3% of other nationalities. Authorities also detained 61 people attempting to leave the Kingdom illegally.

Security agencies also arrested 32 people accused of transporting, sheltering or employing violators.

The ministry reported that 23,807 expatriates are currently undergoing enforcement procedures, including 21,926 men and 1,881 women. It added that 16,805 violators were directed to contact their embassies or consulates to obtain travel documents, 2,437 were instructed to arrange travel, and 11,656 were repatriated.

The ministry reiterated that facilitating illegal entry, transport or shelter can carry penalties of up to 15 years in prison and fines of up to SAR1 million, with possible confiscation of vehicles and properties used in such acts. It called on the public to report violations by dialing 911 in Makkah, Riyadh and the Eastern Region, and 999 or 996 in other regions of the Kingdom.