The Kingdom detains 25,362 illegal individuals in a single week.

Saudi authorities arrested 25,362 individuals in one week for violations of residency, labor, and border security laws, warning of severe penalties for facilitators.

RIYADH March 30, 2025 — Saudi authorities arrested 25,362 individuals in one week for violations of residency, labor, and border security laws, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.

A total of 18,504 individuals were detained for residency law violations, 4,004 for attempting illegal border crossings, and 2,854 for labor-related infractions.

Among the 1,533 people apprehended while trying to enter the Kingdom unlawfully, 65 percent were Ethiopian, 30 percent Yemeni, and 5 percent from other nationalities.

Additionally, 62 individuals were caught attempting to leave the Kingdom illegally, and nine were arrested for involvement in transporting or sheltering violators, according to the SPA.

The Ministry of Interior warned that facilitating illegal entry—whether through transportation or shelter—carries penalties of up to 15 years in prison, fines of up to SR1 million ($260,000), and confiscation of vehicles and property.

Residents can report suspected violations via the toll-free number 911 in the Makkah and Riyadh regions, and 999 or 996 in other areas of the Kingdom.