Saudi Arabia arrests over 20,000 in a week in nationwide crackdown on illegal residents

Among those detained were 12,975 violators of residency laws

Last updated: September 07, 2025 | 12:35

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The arrests came during joint inspections with government agencies conducted between August 28 and September 3. Illustrative image.

AFP file

Dubai: Saudi security forces detained 20,882 people last week in a sweeping campaign targeting illegal residents, the Interior Ministry announced.

The arrests came during joint inspections with government agencies conducted between August 28 and September 3.

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Among those detained were 12,975 violators of residency laws, 4,185 who breached border security regulations, and 3,722 who violated labour laws. Authorities deported 10,895 people, while thousands more were referred to their embassies or placed in custody to finalise travel arrangements.

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Officials said 1,244 people were caught attempting to cross into the kingdom illegally, most of them from Yemen and Ethiopia. Another 20 individuals accused of transporting or sheltering violators were also detained.

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The ministry warned that facilitating illegal entry or providing assistance to violators could bring up to 15 years in prison, fines of SR1 million, and confiscation of vehicles or property. Citizens were urged to report violations via emergency hotlines.

Khitam Al AmirChief News Editor

With over 30 years of journalistic experience spanning from Jordan to the UAE, Khitam has spent the past 22 years reporting on national and regional news from Dubai, with a strong focus on the UAE, GCC and broader Arab affairs. As Chief News Editor, she brings extensive expertise in delivering breaking and engaging news to readers. Beginning her tenure as a translator, she advanced through roles as Senior Translator and Chief Translator before transitioning to editorial positions, culminating in her current leadership role. Her responsibilities encompass monitoring breaking news across the UAE and the broader Arab region, ensuring timely and accurate dissemination to the public. Born into a family of journalists, Khitam's passion for news was ignited early in life. A defining moment in her youth occurred in September 1985 when she had the opportunity to converse with the late British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher during her visit to a Palestinian refugee camp north of Amman. During this encounter, Khitam shared her family's experiences of displacement from their home in Palestine and their subsequent refuge in Jordan. This poignant interaction not only deepened her understanding of geopolitical issues but also solidified her commitment to pursuing a career in journalism, aiming to shed light on the stories of those affected by regional conflicts. Khitam’s commitment to accurate and timely reporting drives her to seek out news that interests readers, making her a trusted source for news on the UAE and the broader Gulf region.