Riyadh, November 2, 2024 — The Saudi Ministry of Interior has undertaken a comprehensive inspection campaign across the Kingdom, running from October 24 to October 30, aimed at reinforcing compliance with residency, labor, and border security laws. This initiative illustrates the Kingdom's unwavering commitment to enforcing legal standards that safeguard national security and social integrity.
During this week of intensified scrutiny, authorities uncovered a staggering total of 21,370 violations. These included 12,274 breaches of residency laws, where individuals were found to be living in the Kingdom without valid documentation or overstaying their permits. Labor law violations accounted for 3,412 cases, predominantly involving expatriates working without the necessary permits or engaging in employment not authorized by their residency status. Moreover, there were 5,684 violations related to border security, reflecting attempts to illegally enter the Kingdom.
Among those apprehended, 1,492 individuals were caught attempting to cross the border unlawfully, with the majority hailing from Yemen and Ethiopia. Specifically, 35% of these were identified as Yemeni nationals, while 61% were Ethiopian. The campaign also resulted in the arrest of 34 individuals attempting to leave the Kingdom illegally. In a broader crackdown on illegal migration, 15 people were detained for their involvement in transporting, sheltering, or employing these undocumented individuals, highlighting the Ministry's zero-tolerance stance on such facilitations.
The enforcement measures extended beyond immediate arrests. A total of 17,543 expatriates, comprising 15,317 men and 2,226 women, are currently undergoing procedures aimed at ensuring compliance with local laws. Authorities have directed 10,411 of these individuals to contact their respective embassies or consulates to obtain proper travel documentation. Additionally, 2,439 have been advised to arrange their departure bookings, while 12,196 have already been repatriated.
The Ministry has issued a stern warning regarding the legal consequences of facilitating illegal immigration. Individuals found guilty of aiding unlawful entry, providing transportation, or offering shelter to undocumented residents face severe penalties, including up to 15 years in prison and fines that may reach SAR1 million. Vehicles used for transport and properties utilized for sheltering violators may also be subject to confiscation. The seriousness of these actions is underscored by the Ministry's classification of such activities as major crimes that warrant immediate arrest.
In an effort to enhance community involvement, the Ministry is actively encouraging citizens and residents to report any suspected violations. This initiative reflects the Kingdom's strategy to strengthen its borders and maintain social order, inviting public cooperation to uphold the legal framework that governs life in Saudi Arabia.