Crackdown: Saudi Arabia arrests nearly 22,000 residency, border, and labour law violators in one week

Crackdown: Saudi Arabia arrests nearly 22,000 residency, border, and labour law violators in one week

Saudi Arabia detained nearly 22,000 individuals between August 7 and 13, 2025, for violating residency, border security, and labor regulations during a nationwide crackdown. Authorities arrested illegal residents, border crossers, and unauthorized workers, with many being Ethiopian and Yemeni nationals. The Kingdom warned of severe penalties for aiding violators, including imprisonment, hefty fines, and property confiscation.