Saudi Arabia Records Over 20,000 Residency, Labor, and Border Violations in One Week

Riyadh, August 31, 2025 (Saudi Arabia Breaking News) – The Ministry of Interior recorded 20,319 violations of residency, labor, and border security regulations during inspection campaigns carried out across the Kingdom between August 21 and 27.

Of the total, 12,891 violations were related to residency rules, 3,888 to border security, and 3,540 to labor laws. Border authorities apprehended 1,238 individuals attempting to cross into Saudi Arabia illegally, including 50 percent Yemenis, 49 percent Ethiopians, and 1 percent from other nationalities. Another 22 people were arrested for attempting to leave the Kingdom illegally.

Authorities also detained 16 people accused of transporting, sheltering, or employing violators. A total of 27,417 expatriates — 24,870 men and 2,547 women — are currently undergoing procedures to enforce regulations.

During the week, 20,916 individuals were instructed to contact their embassies or consulates to obtain travel documents, 1,786 were advised to make travel arrangements, and 11,279 were repatriated.

The ministry warned that anyone who facilitates the illegal entry of individuals into the Kingdom, transports them within its territory, or provides shelter or assistance may face penalties of up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to 1 million Saudi riyals. Vehicles used in transport and properties used for shelter may also be confiscated.

The ministry said such acts constitute major crimes that warrant arrest and urged the public to report violations by calling 911 in Makkah, Riyadh, and Eastern regions, or 999 and 996 in other parts of the Kingdom.