Saudi Arabia deports nearly 15,000 expat violators in a week

Dubai: Saudi Arabia deported 14,916 expatriates in a single week as part of a nationwide campaign targeting residency, labour, and border violators, the Ministry of Interior announced on Saturday.

Between Nov. 6 and Nov. 12, security forces and multiple government agencies arrested 22,156 people during joint inspections. Authorities said the arrests reflect intensified enforcement ahead of peak travel and work seasons.

Official figures show that detainees included:

Of the total, 22,091 detainees were referred to their diplomatic missions to obtain travel documents, 4,784 were transferred to complete departure procedures, and 14,916 were deported after finalising their cases.

Border patrols reported detaining 1,924 people attempting to enter the Kingdom illegally. Among them, 62% were Ethiopian nationals, 37% Yemenis, and the rest from other countries. Additionally, 32 individuals were caught attempting to leave the Kingdom unlawfully.

The crackdown also saw the arrest of 31 people accused of transporting, sheltering, or employing violators. Currently, 30,236 expatriates—including 28,407 men and 1,829 women—remain in custody as authorities complete legal procedures.

The Ministry of Interior warned that anyone assisting illegal migrants—by transporting, housing, or providing services—faces up to 15 years in prison, fines of up to SR1 million, and confiscation of vehicles or property used in such activities.

Residents are urged to report violations by calling 911 in Mecca, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province, or 999/996 in other regions of the Kingdom.