Saudi authorities have arrested more than 11,000 individuals in a nationwide crackdown targeting violations of residency, labor, and border security laws, officials said this week. The arrests were carried out during coordinated inspection campaigns conducted across the kingdom between late April and early May.
According to official figures, a majority of those detained were found in violation of residency regulations, while others were accused of illegal border crossing attempts and labor law breaches. Authorities also reported that several individuals were referred for deportation procedures, while others may face legal penalties under Saudi law.
The campaign forms part of ongoing efforts to regulate the labor market and strengthen border control measures. Saudi officials have repeatedly urged residents and employers to comply with legal requirements, warning of strict enforcement actions against violators. Authorities indicated that inspection campaigns will continue in the coming weeks as part of broader national security and labor regulation initiatives.
