Saudi authorities have arrested 9,639 individuals in a week-long crackdown on violations of the Kingdom’s residency, labor, and border security regulations, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported on Saturday.
The coordinated enforcement campaign, led by the Ministry of Interior, resulted in the detention of 5,625 people for violating residency laws, 2,797 for attempting to cross the border illegally, and 1,217 for labor-related offenses.
Officials emphasized that the operation is part of ongoing efforts to enhance national security and enforce regulations governing foreign workers and border control.
In a stern warning to those who aid or harbor violators, the Ministry of Interior stated that anyone found facilitating illegal entry into the Kingdom—including offering transportation, housing, or other forms of assistance—faces severe penalties. These include up to 15 years in prison, fines of up to SR1 million (approximately $266,000), and the seizure of vehicles and property used in the offense.
Authorities urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspected violations. Reports can be made by calling 911 in the Makkah and Riyadh regions, or 999 and 996 in other parts of the Kingdom.
The ministry reiterated that maintaining border integrity and labor compliance is essential for national safety and economic stability. The latest arrests are part of broader, sustained efforts to monitor and regulate the presence of foreign nationals in accordance with Saudi law.
The Kingdom has been intensifying its inspection campaigns in recent years as part of broader reforms to regulate labor markets, reduce illegal employment, and improve residency tracking systems.
Further operations are expected as the government continues to clamp down on illegal residency and employment practices while encouraging lawful compliance through legal work channels.
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