Saudi Arabia Deports 14,905 Illegal Residents in Crackdown

Between August 20 and 26, Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Interior announced the deportation of 14,905 individuals and the arrest of 14,434 others during a nationwide crackdown on immigration violations. The inspections, conducted in collaboration with relevant government agencies, focused on individuals who overstayed their residency permits, worked without authorization, or violated border security regulations.

Among those arrested, 6,976 were detained for residency violations, 4,110 for border security breaches, and 3,348 for labor law violations. Additionally, 27 individuals were arrested for assisting violators by providing transportation, shelter, or employment.

Beyond the deportations, 18,914 people were referred to their diplomatic missions for travel documents, while 2,867 were directed to finalize their travel arrangements. A total of 29,938 expatriates are still undergoing enforcement of immigration and residency rules.

The Ministry reiterated the severe penalties for anyone aiding illegal residents, which could include up to 15 years in prison and fines up to SR1 million.