Four Expat Workers Arrested for Illegal Fishing in Qunfudhah

Coastal patrols of the Saudi Border Guard arrested four expatriate workers of Myanmar and Bangladeshi nationality in Qunfudhah governorate, Makkah region, in August 2026, for fishing without a permit and using prohibited equipment.

The arrests came as part of ongoing enforcement of maritime safety, environmental, and marine resource regulations, which aim to protect the Kingdom's coastal ecosystems and ensure sustainable use of fisheries.

What the rules say

Under Saudi regulations, hunting, extracting, or collecting marine wildlife species — or their permitted products and derivatives — without a valid license is prohibited. The standard administrative fine is 10,000 SAR plus 100 SAR up to a maximum of 100,000 SAR. Cases involving endangered or prohibited species carry a base fine of 50,000 SAR plus 200 SAR up to 500,000 SAR.

Broader environmental provisions set even higher penalties. Operating an environmentally impactful marine or coastal activity without a permit can, at higher breach levels, incur fines from 500,000 SAR up to 2,000,000 SAR depending on the category and recurrence. Failures to contain leaks or spills can reach 5,000,000 SAR, while disposing of hazardous waste into the marine environment can reach 20,000,000 SAR.

The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture is the competent authority for marine wildlife, coastal environment, and fishing regulations. Fishing licenses and permits are issued and renewed through ministry channels and specialized environmental centers. Renewals must be completed within specified deadlines; failing to renew beyond 15 days from expiry can trigger fines in the 100–500 SAR range for minor violations, with repeated breaches subject to progressively doubled fines up to 10,000 SAR.

For residents and expats who fish, the message is clear: obtain the proper license, avoid prohibited gear, and keep permits current to steer clear of significant fines.

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