Saudi Arabia arrests over 21,000 illegal residents, deports 11,687 in a week

Arrests made in nationwide crackdown on illegal residents

Last updated: September 14, 2025 | 12:04

Khitam Al Amir, Chief News Editor

1 MIN READ

(For illustrative purposes only)

Agency

Dubai: Saudi security forces arrested 21,339 people in a weeklong nationwide campaign against illegal residency, border crossings and labour violations, the Ministry of Interior has announced.

The arrests, carried out between September 4 and10 in joint inspections with other government agencies, included 12,955 violators of residency rules, 4,198 of border security laws and 4,186 of labour regulations.

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According to the ministry, 11,687 of those detained have already been deported. Another 25,133 are in the process of securing travel documents through their diplomatic missions, while 2,349 are completing travel arrangements.

Authorities reported that 1,314 people were caught attempting to cross into the kingdom illegally — 43 percent from Yemen, 56 percent from Ethiopia and the rest from other nationalities. Twenty-five people were detained while trying to leave the country unlawfully.

Officials also arrested 23 individuals accused of providing transportation, shelter or employment to violators. In total, 32,280 expatriates — 29,155 men and 3,125 women — remain in custody as legal proceedings continue.

The Interior Ministry warned that anyone who aids or shelters undocumented individuals could face up to 15 years in prison and fines of up to SR1 million riyals . Vehicles and properties used for such purposes will be confiscated.

The ministry urged the public to report violations by calling 911 in Mecca, Riyadh and the Eastern Province, or 999 and 996 in other regions.

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.

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