Saudi Arabia Arrests Over 12,000 in Nationwide Crackdown on Residency, Labour, and Border Violations

Riyadh – Saudi authorities detained 12,129 individuals last week in a sweeping national campaign targeting violations of residency, labour, and border security regulations, the Ministry of Interior announced.

Mass Arrests Across the Kingdom
The arrests took place during coordinated field operations conducted in all regions between May 22 and May 28, 2025. Authorities confirmed the following breakdown:

• 7,127 for violating residency laws

• 3,441 for border security offenses

• 1,561 for labour regulation violations

In addition, 1,197 people were intercepted while attempting to illegally enter the Kingdom, primarily of Ethiopian (63%) and Yemeni (34%) origin.

Another 90 individuals were caught trying to exit the country through unauthorized routes.

Crackdown on Facilitators
The Ministry also arrested 18 individuals for facilitating illegal residency or employment, including through transport, harboring, or hiring undocumented individuals. These offenses carry severe punishments under Saudi law:

• Up to 15 years in prison

• Fines of up to SR 1 million

• Confiscation of vehicles and property used in committing the crimes

Legal Processing and Deportations
Authorities reported that:

• 19,238 violators are currently undergoing legal procedures

  • 17,930 men

  • 1,308 women

• 14,065 have been referred to diplomatic missions for travel documents

• 1,533 are finalizing travel arrangements

• 11,094 have already been deported

Ongoing National Campaign
The Interior Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing immigration and labor laws, warning that individuals or organizations aiding violators will face serious legal consequences. The ministry urged all residents and employers to comply with national regulations to support public order and border security.