Saudi Arabia Records Over 18,800 Residency, Border And Labour Violations In One Week

The Ministry of Interior in Saudi Arabia reports strict action on residency, labour and border security violations during inspection campaigns held between 25 and 31 December 2025, confirming thousands of offences and warning of tough penalties for those aiding illegal entry or stay.

Officials state that anyone who enables unlawful entry into the Kingdom, moves violators within Saudi Arabia, or offers shelter, assistance or any related service may face up to 15 years in prison and a fine reaching SAR1 million, with vehicles and properties used also subject to confiscation.

During the one-week campaign, the Ministry of Interior recorded 18,805 violations across Saudi Arabia, including 11,752 related to residency rules, 4,239 tied to border security regulations, and 2,814 linked to labour laws, reflecting coordinated efforts by security and inspection teams across the Kingdom.

Border authorities stopped 1,739 people attempting to enter Saudi Arabia irregularly, with 37% identified as Yemenis, 62% as Ethiopians and 1% from other nationalities, while 46 individuals were arrested for trying to leave the Kingdom illegally, highlighting pressure on both entry and exit routes.

Security teams also detained 14 people accused of transporting, sheltering or employing violators, as part of wider enforcement against support networks, while 28,411 expatriates, including 26,855 men and 1,556 women, are undergoing procedures to implement regulations and determine their legal status.

Authorities report that 20,555 individuals were held for breaching regulations and were told to contact their countries’ embassies or consulates to secure valid travel documents, while 3,904 people were instructed to arrange travel plans and 12,238 individuals were repatriated from Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Arabia Ministry of Interior residency and labor violations reporting channels

The ministry describes these offences as major crimes requiring arrest and calls on residents and citizens to report violations by phoning 911 in Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh and Eastern regions, or 999 and 996 in other areas, stressing continued campaigns to uphold residency, labour and border laws.

With inputs from SPA