Facilitating illegal immigration in Saudi Arabia now carries up to 15 years in prison and SR1 million in fines.
Saudi Arabia has arrested 19,831 illegal residents in a massive week-long operation between December 5 and 11, according to the Ministry of Interior.
The campaign, conducted in collaboration with government agencies, focused on violations of residency, border security, and labour laws.
Among the arrested, 11,358 individuals were caught for breaching residency laws, 4,994 for border security violations, and 3,479 for labour law infractions. Additionally, 1,303 people were intercepted while attempting to enter Saudi Arabia illegally, with Yemeni nationals accounting for 38%, Ethiopians 60%, and others 2%. A further 173 individuals were detained for attempting to exit the Kingdom unlawfully.
Deportations and legal action
As part of the ongoing crackdown, 27,540 expatriates, including 24,810 men and 2,730 women, are undergoing legal proceedings for deportation. So far, 19,258 violators have been referred to their respective diplomatic missions to process travel documents, and 9,893 have already been deported.
The operation also targeted those aiding illegal residents, leading to the arrest of 25 individuals for transporting, employing, or sheltering violators.
The ministry has issued a stern warning against facilitating illegal immigration, with penalties including up to 15 years in prison, a fine of SR1 million, and confiscation of vehicles or properties involved in such offences.
Citizens and residents are encouraged to report violators by calling 911 in Mecca, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province, or 999 and 996 in other regions of the Kingdom.