Riyadh, November 16, 2024 – The Saudi Ministry of Interior recently conducted a series of rigorous inspection campaigns across the Kingdom from November 7 to November 13, aimed at ensuring compliance with the country’s residency, labor, and border security laws. The inspections, which spanned various regions, led to significant findings and underscored the Ministry’s commitment to maintaining law and order within the Kingdom’s borders.
The inspection efforts resulted in the identification of 20,124 violations nationwide. These included 11,607 breaches of residency regulations, 5,285 violations of border security protocols, and 3,232 infringements of labor laws. These violations are part of the Ministry's ongoing efforts to uphold the integrity of the Kingdom's immigration and security systems.
During this period, a total of 1,401 individuals were apprehended attempting to illegally cross into Saudi Arabia. Of those attempting border crossings, 39% were from Yemen, 60% from Ethiopia, and 1% from other countries. Additionally, 98 individuals were arrested for trying to leave the Kingdom illegally, reflecting the comprehensive approach to both inbound and outbound border security. The Ministry also arrested six individuals involved in the facilitation of these illegal activities, including transporting, sheltering, or employing violators of the law.
In the course of the inspections, 21,267 expatriates were found to be in violation of residency or labor laws. These individuals, including 18,508 men and 2,759 women, are currently undergoing procedures to enforce regulatory compliance. Among them, 13,354 individuals were detained for their violations and were instructed to contact their respective embassies or consulates to obtain the necessary travel documentation. In addition, 3,096 people were given instructions to arrange for their departure, while 10,458 individuals were repatriated to their home countries.
The Ministry of Interior has issued a stern warning regarding the facilitation of illegal entry or support for violators. Individuals who assist in the illegal entry, transportation, or sheltering of unauthorized persons face severe penalties, including imprisonment for up to 15 years, a fine of up to SAR 1 million, and the potential confiscation of vehicles used in the commission of these crimes. The Ministry emphasized that such actions are considered major crimes, subject to arrest and prosecution.
Furthermore, the Ministry called on all citizens and residents to assist in upholding the law by reporting any violations to the authorities. Reports can be made by calling the designated emergency numbers: 911 for the Makkah, Riyadh, and Eastern regions, and 999 or 996 for the rest of the Kingdom.
The Ministry of Interior reiterated its commitment to ensuring that Saudi Arabia’s borders remain secure and that the Kingdom continues to enforce strict adherence to its residency and labor laws, with a focus on upholding the safety and security of all residents.