Saudi authorities deport nearly 10,000 illegal residents in week
Security forces arrested over 11,500 people during joint inspections between October 29 and November 4.
At a glance
- 11,587 illegal residents arrested during week-long joint security inspections
- 9,589 deported; 23,193 referred to embassies for travel documents
- 1,678 arrested attempting illegal border entry; 18 attempting illegal exit
- 29 people arrested for transporting, sheltering or employing violators
Saudi security authorities arrested 11,587 illegal residents during joint inspections carried out between October 29 and November 4, the Ministry of Interior announced. The arrests included 6,043 violators of residency laws, 3,191 border security law violators, and 2,353 labour law violators. A total of 9,589 illegal residents were deported.
Additionally, 23,193 violators were referred to their diplomatic missions to obtain travel documents, and 9,139 were referred to complete travel reservations. Authorities arrested 1,678 people attempting to enter the country illegally and 18 attempting to leave illegally. The ministry warned that facilitating illegal entry, transportation, shelter or employment of violators carries penalties of up to 15 years imprisonment and fines up to SR1 million.
Why it matters
The operation reflects ongoing enforcement of immigration and labour regulations affecting tens of thousands of expatriates undergoing legal procedures.
Original reporting
- Saudi GazetteSaudi Arabia deports 9,589 illegal residents in a week
- Saudi Gazette — LatestSaudi Arabia deports 9,589 illegal residents in a week
This brief was written with AI assistance from the reports listed above and checked against our editorial policy. Spotted an error? Request a correction.
