Saudia(The COW News Digital)Authorities in Saudi Arabia have arrested more than 13,000 individuals for violating residency, labor, and border security regulations during a nationwide inspection campaign conducted between February 5 and 11, 2026.
According to local media reports, a total of 12,875 people were detained for breaching residency (Iqama) laws, while 3,376 were arrested for violations related to labor regulations. Additionally, 4,778 individuals were held for attempting to cross the border illegally.
Officials said that 2,307 people were apprehended while trying to enter the Kingdom unlawfully. Among them, 52 percent were Ethiopian nationals, 47 percent were Yemeni citizens, and one percent belonged to other nationalities. Authorities also reported the arrest of 75 individuals who were attempting to cross into neighboring countries from Saudi territory.
The crackdown further targeted those facilitating illegal activities. Twenty-nine people were detained for their alleged involvement in transporting, harboring, or providing employment and shelter to undocumented migrants. Saudi law strictly prohibits offering assistance to individuals who violate residency or labor regulations, with penalties including imprisonment and heavy fines.
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The report stated that a total of 23,212 expatriates — including 22,040 men and 1,272 women — are currently undergoing legal procedures as part of the enforcement campaign. Of these, 16,121 individuals were taken into custody for confirmed violations.
Authorities have instructed 2,270 detainees to coordinate with their respective embassies or consulates to obtain necessary travel documents. Meanwhile, 13,213 individuals have already been deported to their home countries following the completion of legal formalities.
Saudi Arabia regularly conducts nationwide inspection drives aimed at regulating the labor market and ensuring compliance with residency and border laws. The Ministry of Interior has reiterated that harboring or assisting undocumented migrants is considered a criminal offense under Saudi regulations.
The latest enforcement campaign underscores the Kingdom’s continued efforts to strengthen border control and enforce labor and immigration policies. Officials have urged residents and employers to comply fully with legal requirements to avoid strict penalties.
