Saudi Arabia deports more than 14,900 after nationwide residency crackdown

Saudi Arabia has implemented a rigorous one-week crackdown on illegal residents, deporting more than 14,900 individuals and arresting 14,434 others for various infractions related to residency, labor, and border security. The Ministry of Interior coordinated joint inspections across the Kingdom from August 20 to August 26, working in tandem with relevant government agencies.

During the enforcement campaign, 6,976 individuals were cited for residency violations, 4,110 for breaching border security regulations, and 3,348 for labor law violations. Additionally, 1,450 individuals attempting to enter the country illegally were apprehended at the border, with Ethiopians accounting for 58% of the detainees, followed by Yemenis at 41%, and other nationalities comprising 1%.

Furthermore, 44 individuals were caught attempting to leave the Kingdom without proper authorization. To tackle the issue of people facilitating unlawful entry, transportation, accommodation, or other forms of assistance, authorities detained 27 suspects who were accused of aiding such activities. These individuals face up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to SR1 million, along with the potential confiscation of vehicles and properties used for such purposes.

In addition to deportations, 18,914 individuals were referred to their diplomatic missions to obtain travel documents, and another 2,867 were directed to finalize their travel arrangements. Meanwhile, 29,938 expatriates are currently undergoing procedures to ensure compliance with Saudi Arabia's immigration and residency regulations.

Regular nationwide inspections targeting overstays, unauthorized work, and border security breaches are common practices in Saudi Arabia. Violators facilitating illegal entries, transporting, sheltering, or employing individuals in breach of regulations can face severe penalties, including imprisonment and substantial fines.