Saudi Arabia detains more than 14,000 people in nationwide enforcement campaign

Saudi authorities arrested more than 14,000 people during a week long nationwide campaign targeting violations of residency, labour and border security laws, according to the Kingdom’s Ministry of Interior.

The ministry said joint inspection operations carried out between July 23 and July 29 resulted in the detention of 14,154 individuals. The campaign formed part of ongoing efforts to strengthen border security and ensure compliance with the country’s immigration and labour regulations.

Official figures showed that 7,103 people were arrested for violating residency rules, while 3,654 were detained for breaching border security laws. Another 3,397 individuals were taken into custody for labour related offences. Authorities said the inspections were conducted across different regions of the Kingdom with the participation of several government agencies.

The ministry also reported that 1,418 people were arrested while attempting to enter Saudi Arabia illegally. Among them, 54 percent were Yemeni nationals and 45 percent were Ethiopian nationals, while the remaining one percent belonged to other nationalities. In addition, security forces detained 23 people who were allegedly trying to leave the country through illegal routes.

Authorities also arrested 17 individuals accused of helping violators by transporting, sheltering, employing or concealing people who had breached residency, labour or border security regulations. Officials stressed that anyone assisting illegal entry or providing support to those staying in the Kingdom unlawfully would face strict legal action.

According to the ministry, 30,679 people are currently undergoing legal procedures related to residency, labour and border security violations. This group includes 28,187 men and 2,492 women. Officials said 17,903 individuals have been referred to their respective diplomatic missions to obtain travel documents needed for their return, while 5,424 have been directed to complete travel arrangements. So far, 12,613 people have been deported after completing the required legal process.

The Ministry of Interior warned that facilitating illegal entry into Saudi Arabia or providing transportation, accommodation or any other form of assistance to violators is considered a major criminal offence. Those found guilty could face prison sentences of up to 15 years, fines reaching one million Saudi riyals and the confiscation of vehicles or properties used in committing the offence. Authorities also said offenders may be publicly identified as part of the legal penalties.

The ministry urged residents to report any suspected violations through emergency numbers designated for different regions of the Kingdom. Officials said public cooperation remains essential in supporting efforts to enforce immigration laws and maintain national security.

Saudi Arabia regularly conducts nationwide inspection campaigns aimed at regulating the labour market, strengthening border controls and ensuring that foreign residents comply with the country’s legal requirements. The latest operation reflects the government’s continued focus on enforcing immigration and employment regulations across the Kingdom.