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

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior reported 20,882 violations of residency, labor, and border security laws during nationwide inspection campaigns conducted between August 28 and September 3, 2025.

Breakdown of Violations

• Residency law breaches: 12,975

• Border security breaches: 4,185

• Labor law breaches: 3,722

Authorities also apprehended 1,244 individuals attempting to cross into the Kingdom illegally. Of these, 66% were Ethiopians, 33% Yemenis, and 1% from other nationalities. An additional 21 people were arrested while trying to leave Saudi Arabia unlawfully.

Arrests and Enforcement

The campaigns resulted in the arrest of 20 individuals accused of transporting, sheltering, or employing violators.Currently, 29,571 expatriates—including 26,779 men and 2,792 women—are undergoing procedures to enforce the regulations.

Enforcement measures included:

• 22,550 individuals instructed to contact embassies and consulates for travel documents

• 2,394 individuals advised to arrange travel

• 10,895 individuals repatriated

Penalties for Violations

The Ministry of Interior stressed that those who facilitate illegal entry, transportation, or sheltering of violators face severe penalties:

• Up to 15 years in prison

• Fines reaching SAR 1 million

• Confiscation of vehicles and properties used in such activities

Authorities underscored that these offenses are classified as major crimes warranting arrest.

Public Awareness

The ministry urged the public to report violations by calling:

• 911 in Makkah, Riyadh, and the Eastern regions

• 999 or 996 in other parts of the Kingdom

These campaigns form part of Saudi Arabia’s broader efforts to enhance border security and ensure compliance with residency and labor regulations.