Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Interior deported 14,905 people and arrested 14,434 others during a week-long enforcement campaign targeting illegal residents, conducted from August 20 to 26. The joint inspection exercise, carried out in coordination with relevant government agencies across the Kingdom, focused on individuals who overstayed residency permits, worked without proper authorization, or breached border security regulations, according to Gulf News.
Breakdown of Arrests and Violations
Of the 14,434 people arrested, 6,976 were held for residency violations, 4,110 for border security breaches, and 3,348 for breaking labour laws. An additional 27 individuals were detained for aiding those in violation by providing transportation, shelter, or employment.
Beyond the deportations, 18,914 people were referred to their respective diplomatic missions to obtain travel documents, while 2,867 others were directed to complete their travel arrangements. A separate group of 29,938 expatriates—comprising 27,957 men and 1,981 women—remain in the process of having immigration and residency rules enforced against them.
Penalties for Aiding Illegal Residents
The Interior Ministry used the announcement to remind the public of severe penalties for anyone who assists illegal residents in the Kingdom. Those found guilty of helping others enter Saudi Arabia unlawfully, transporting them, providing accommodation, or offering any other form of assistance could face up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to SR1 million. Vehicles used to transport offenders and properties used to shelter them may also be confiscated.
Saudi authorities carry out such nationwide inspections on a regular basis as part of the Kingdom's broader efforts to enforce its immigration, residency, and labour laws. The latest figures underscore the scale of enforcement, with nearly 30,000 additional expatriates currently undergoing procedures to regularize their status or face penalties.
