The Ministry of Interior in Saudi Arabia conducted inspection campaigns between July 4 and July 10, 2024, to ensure compliance with residency, labor, and border security regulations. A total of 20,093 violations were recorded during the campaigns, with 12,460 related to residency, 5,400 to border security, and 2,233 to labor laws. Of those attempting to illegally cross the border into the Kingdom, 42% were Yemenis, 57% were Ethiopians, and 1% were of other nationalities. Additionally, 49 people were arrested for trying to leave the Kingdom unlawfully, while 16 individuals involved in transporting, sheltering, and employing violators were also apprehended.
As a result of the inspection campaigns, 19,841 expatriates (18,209 men and 1,632 women) are currently undergoing processes to enforce the regulations. Of those detained for violating laws, 9,438 were instructed to contact their countries’ embassies or consulates to obtain proper travel documentation, 3,833 were asked to make travel arrangements for departure, and 11,655 were repatriated. The Ministry of Interior has issued a warning that individuals who facilitate illegal entry into the Kingdom, transport violators within its borders, provide shelter or any other assistance, may face penalties of up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to SR1 million. Furthermore, vehicles and houses used for transport or shelter may be impounded as well.
The Ministry of Interior emphasized that these actions are considered serious crimes that warrant immediate arrest. To combat such violations, the ministry urges individuals to report any suspicious activities by calling the emergency numbers 911 in the Makkah, Riyadh, and Eastern regions, and 999 or 996 in other parts of the Kingdom. By raising awareness and cracking down on illegal activities, the Ministry of Interior aims to ensure the security and well-being of all residents and visitors in Saudi Arabia.
These inspection campaigns are part of ongoing efforts by the Saudi government to uphold laws and regulations related to residency, labor, and border security. By conducting regular checks and taking strong enforcement actions against violators, the authorities aim to maintain order and prevent illegal activities that may threaten the safety and security of the Kingdom. The high number of violations recorded during this period underscores the importance of continued vigilance and strict enforcement measures to deter individuals from engaging in unlawful activities.
The breakdown of violations by category provides insight into the areas where enforcement efforts need to be strengthened. With a significant number of residency violations, the authorities may need to focus on monitoring and verifying the legal status of expatriates in the Kingdom more effectively. Border security violations also highlight the challenges faced in preventing illegal entry and exit from the country, especially in regions where border controls may be more porous.
The Ministry of Interior’s warning of severe penalties for those involved in facilitating illegal activities serves as a deterrent to potential violators. By making it clear that such actions will not be tolerated and will be met with harsh consequences, the ministry aims to discourage individuals from engaging in illegal acts. Through a combination of enforcement actions, public awareness campaigns, and community cooperation, the authorities seek to create a safe and secure environment for all individuals in Saudi Arabia.
