Saudi authorities have arrested more than 22,000 foreign nationals in a sweeping crackdown targeting violations of residency, labor, and border security laws. The arrests were made between July 31 and August 6 across multiple regions of the Kingdom, as part of coordinated field operations involving various security and government agencies.
According to the Ministry of Interior, 13,833 individuals were detained for violating residency laws, 4,624 for breaching border regulations, and 3,615 for labor law infractions. Additionally, 1,640 people were intercepted while attempting to enter the country illegally, with the majority identified as Ethiopian and Yemeni nationals.
The crackdown also led to the arrest of 48 individuals trying to leave Saudi Arabia unlawfully, and 37 residents accused of sheltering, transporting, or employing undocumented migrants. Authorities have warned that aiding illegal entrants can result in severe penalties, including up to 15 years in prison, fines reaching one million riyals, and confiscation of property used in the offense.
Currently, over 26,000 detainees are undergoing legal procedures, with thousands already referred to their respective embassies for travel documentation. More than 11,000 have been deported, and arrangements are underway for the repatriation of thousands more.
The operation reflects Saudi Arabia’s intensified efforts to enforce immigration laws and maintain internal security, amid growing concerns over unauthorized labor and border breaches.
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