Saudi Arabia has deported more than 14,000 illegal residents in a major nationwide crackdown aimed at curbing violations of residency, labor, and border regulations.
According to the Ministry of Interior, the operations were carried out between October 16 and 22 across multiple regions of the Kingdom. The ministry confirmed that 22,613 individuals were arrested during joint efforts involving several government departments.
Out of those detained, 14,039 individuals were deported after legal proceedings confirmed their unlawful stay in the country. The remaining detainees are undergoing investigation and necessary documentation before deportation.
Officials stated that the campaign targets all forms of illegal residency and employment violations. It is part of the government’s long-term policy to regulate foreign workers and ensure compliance with Saudi laws.
The ministry further warned that individuals and employers who assist or shelter illegal residents will face strict penalties, including fines, imprisonment, and deportation. Citizens were urged to report any such violations through official hotlines and digital platforms.
Saudi Arabia has intensified its efforts in recent months to control illegal migration, particularly ahead of large-scale development projects and upcoming events that require strict regulatory compliance.
Authorities emphasized that the crackdown is not only a matter of law enforcement but also linked to national security and the protection of the country’s labor market integrity.
This mass deportation reflects Riyadh’s ongoing commitment to enforcing its Vision 2030 objectives, which focus on structured labor reforms and improved administrative governance.
In a related global development, a U.S. Navy aircraft recently crashed in the South China Sea, highlighting a tense international climate surrounding regional security and migration concerns.
Saudi officials reiterated that similar operations will continue in the coming weeks to ensure all residents abide by the Kingdom’s immigration and labor laws.
