In a sweeping enforcement campaign, Saudi Arabia cracks down on residency, labor, and border violations, arresting 23,167 individuals in just seven days. The Ministry of Interior confirmed the operations took place between July 10 and July 16, 2025.
Authorities detained 14,525 people for residency violations, 5,511 for border security breaches, and 3,131 for labor law infractions. Additionally, security forces stopped 1,593 individuals attempting to enter the Kingdom illegally. Among them, 69% were Ethiopian, 30% Yemeni, and 1% from other nations.
Another 41 people were caught trying to leave Saudi Arabia unlawfully. The campaign also led to the arrest of 22 individuals accused of aiding violators through transportation, shelter, or employment.
Currently, 16,441 detainees—14,255 men and 2,186 women—are undergoing legal processing. Officials have referred 8,622 violators to their embassies for travel documents, while 3,393 are finalizing deportation arrangements. So far, 10,587 people have already been expelled from the country.
The Ministry of Interior issued a stern warning against assisting violators. Those caught smuggling, harboring, or employing illegal entrants face up to 15 years in prison and fines reaching SR1 million. Authorities will also confiscate any vehicles or properties used in these crimes and publicly name offenders.
The government classifies these offenses as major crimes, emphasizing their threat to national security. Officials urge citizens to report violations by calling 911 in major cities or 999 and 996 elsewhere.
Saudi Arabia cracks down regularly on residency and border violations to maintain order. These operations reflect the Kingdom’s zero-tolerance approach to illegal immigration and labor exploitation. With thousands already deported, authorities show no signs of easing their stringent enforcement measures.
As legal proceedings continue, more arrests and deportations are expected. The government remains committed to safeguarding its borders and ensuring compliance with national laws.
