Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, January 19, 2025 – The Ministry of Interior has announced the results of its recent series of inspection campaigns conducted across the Kingdom between January 9 and January 15, 2025. These extensive operations were aimed at ensuring compliance with Saudi Arabia’s residency, labor, and border security laws, as part of the Kingdom’s ongoing efforts to maintain order and security within its borders.
The inspections resulted in the identification of 21,485 violations of various laws. Among these, 13,562 violations were related to residency laws, 4,853 involved border security violations, and 3,070 were attributed to breaches of labor laws. These figures highlight the Ministry’s rigorous enforcement measures and its commitment to ensuring that all individuals and businesses comply with the Kingdom’s regulations.
The Ministry’s border security efforts were also focused on addressing illegal immigration, with 1,568 individuals apprehended while attempting to cross into the Kingdom unlawfully. Of these individuals, 47% were identified as Yemeni nationals, 50% were Ethiopian nationals, and 3% were from other countries. In addition to these arrests, 64 people were detained for attempting to leave the Kingdom illegally, highlighting the Ministry’s comprehensive approach to securing both entry and exit points.
Furthermore, the Ministry’s efforts also targeted those who facilitate illegal immigration. Sixteen individuals were arrested for their involvement in transporting, sheltering, or employing violators of the Kingdom’s laws. This underscores the authorities’ determination to crack down on those who aid and abet illegal activities, a critical part of ensuring national security.
A total of 33,007 expatriates, including 30,335 men and 2,672 women, are currently undergoing procedures to enforce the regulations. Among these individuals, 25,164 were detained for violating various laws and were instructed to contact their respective embassies or consulates to arrange for proper travel documentation. Additionally, 2,864 individuals were instructed to make arrangements for their departure from the Kingdom, while 11,955 were repatriated to their home countries, in accordance with the legal procedures.
The Ministry of Interior has issued a strong warning against those who assist in facilitating the illegal entry of individuals into Saudi Arabia, transport them within the Kingdom, or provide them with shelter or any form of support. Such actions are considered serious crimes and can result in severe penalties, including up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to SAR 1 million. Furthermore, the vehicles used to transport illegal immigrants or the properties used for sheltering them may be confiscated as part of the penalties. The Ministry emphasized that these crimes are a priority for law enforcement, and those involved in such activities will face swift legal consequences.
The Ministry also urged the public to remain vigilant and report any violations of the Kingdom’s laws. To facilitate reporting, citizens and residents are encouraged to contact the Ministry’s dedicated helpline at 911 for those in Makkah, Riyadh, and the Eastern regions, and at 999 or 996 for the rest of the Kingdom. This initiative aims to foster greater public cooperation in maintaining the integrity of Saudi Arabia’s borders and regulatory framework.
The inspection campaigns are part of a broader effort by the Ministry of Interior to uphold the rule of law and ensure that Saudi Arabia remains a secure and orderly society. By addressing violations and cracking down on illegal activities, the Ministry is not only protecting the Kingdom’s borders but also safeguarding the rights and safety of its citizens and residents. The Ministry’s comprehensive approach to border security and regulatory enforcement continues to play a critical role in maintaining the Kingdom’s stability and international standing.