14,782 Arrested in Week-Long Nationwide Campaigns

Saudi authorities arrested 14,782 people in a single week during joint nationwide inspection campaigns targeting violations of residency, border security, and labor regulations. The arrests were recorded between 10 and 16 September 2026 across all regions of the Kingdom.

The weekly figures showed that 7,438 people were held for breaching the Residency Law, 3,782 for violating the Border Security Law, and 3,562 for offenses under the Labor Law. During the same period, 12,635 illegal residents were deported after completing the required procedures.

The campaigns are carried out by security agencies in coordination with relevant government bodies as part of an ongoing effort to monitor and apprehend those in breach of residency, labor, and border regulations. Field operations continue across every region of the country.

Steady enforcement through 2026

The latest total is broadly in line with recent weeks. Authorities recorded 14,796 arrests between 3 and 9 September, 14,165 between 27 August and 2 September, and 14,542 between 6 and 12 August. Earlier weeks in July and June saw similar levels, ranging from just over 14,000 to more than 15,000 arrests.

For residents and expatriates, the figures underline the importance of keeping residency, work, and travel documents valid and in order. Ensuring that iqama status, work permits, and sponsorship details remain accurate helps individuals and employers avoid penalties during the continuing inspection drives.

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