Saudi Arabia Detains Over 11,000 in Crackdown on Residency and Labour Violations

May 10, 2026

55 min

May 10, 2026 13:30

Saudi Arabia arrests 11,175 residency, labour violators in week-long crackdown

## Nationwide Crackdown

Saudi Arabia has intensified its efforts against illegal residency and labour practices, resulting in the arrest of 11,175 individuals over a week-long period. This operation, conducted from April 30 to May 6, involved multiple government agencies working together to enforce the country's laws.

## Arrest Details

The Ministry of Interior reported that among those detained, 6,153 were found violating residency laws, 3,619 breached border security regulations, and 1,403 were involved in labour law infractions. Additionally, 1,411 individuals were caught attempting to enter Saudi Arabia illegally, with the majority being from Yemen and Ethiopia.

## Deportations and Legal Actions

Following the arrests, 11,272 violators were deported. Others are in the process of obtaining travel documents through their respective diplomatic missions. Authorities also detained 19 individuals for assisting violators by providing transportation, shelter, or employment. These actions carry severe penalties, including up to 15 years in prison and fines reaching 1 million riyals.

## Public Involvement

The Ministry has urged the public to report any violations through designated emergency numbers, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in upholding the law.

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