Riyadh — (The Cow new digital) Saudi Arabia has reported a significant rise in violations of residency, labor, and border security laws, with authorities recording more than 12,000 infractions within a single week, according to official data released by the Ministry of Interior.
The report, cited by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), stated that between April 16 and April 22, 2026, a total of 12,192 violations were documented across the Kingdom. During the same period, authorities also repatriated 17,368 undocumented foreign nationals to their respective countries.
According to the breakdown provided by officials, 6,606 individuals were detained for violating residency (Iqama) regulations. In addition, 3,510 people were arrested for attempting to illegally cross border entry points, while 2,076 individuals were held for violations of labor laws.
The authorities further revealed that 1,454 individuals were apprehended for illegally entering the Kingdom. Among them, approximately 67 percent were Ethiopian nationals, 32 percent were Yemeni nationals, and the remaining one percent belonged to other countries.
Security forces also intercepted 50 individuals who were attempting to cross borders unlawfully from Saudi Arabia into neighboring countries. In addition, 22 people were arrested for involvement in facilitating illegal entry, accommodation, employment, or transportation of undocumented migrants.
Officials reiterated that assisting or harboring illegal residents is considered a serious criminal offense under Saudi law, carrying strict penalties including fines, imprisonment, and deportation.
The Ministry of Interior emphasized that ongoing enforcement campaigns are part of broader efforts to strengthen border security, regulate the labor market, and ensure compliance with residency laws. Authorities continue to conduct inspections and coordinated operations across various regions of the Kingdom.
Saudi Arabia has intensified its crackdown on illegal immigration in recent years as part of its regulatory reforms and efforts to maintain labor market stability under its national development agenda.
Officials have urged residents and employers to strictly comply with immigration and labor regulations to avoid legal consequences.
