Riyadh: In inspection campaigns conducted across Saudi Arabia from December 25 to 31, 2025, the Ministry of Interior recorded 18,805 violations related to residency, labor, and border security laws. This initiative aimed to ensure compliance with the country's legal frameworks governing these areas.
According to Saudi Press Agency, the violations included 11,752 related to residency, 4,239 concerning border security, and 2,814 associated with labor laws. Border authorities apprehended 1,739 individuals attempting to enter the Kingdom illegally, with 37% identified as Yemenis, 62% Ethiopians, and 1% from other nationalities. Additionally, 46 people were arrested for attempting to exit the Kingdom unlawfully.
Authorities arrested 14 individuals involved in the transportation, sheltering, and employment of the violators. Furthermore, 28,411 expatriates, comprising 26,855 men and 1,556 women, are currently undergoing procedures to enforce regulations.
The report also highlighted that 20,555 individuals were detained for regulatory violations and instructed to contact their respective embassies or consulates to secure proper travel documents. Moreover, 3,904 individuals were advised to arrange travel, and 12,238 were repatriated.
The Ministry of Interior issued a warning that facilitating the illegal entry of individuals into the Kingdom, transporting them, or providing shelter and assistance could result in penalties of up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to SAR1 million. Vehicles used for transportation and properties used for sheltering violators are subject to confiscation. The ministry reiterated that these acts are considered major crimes warranting arrest and urged the public to report any violations by contacting 911 in Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh, and Eastern regions, or 999 and 996 in other parts of the Kingdom.