14k arrested for labor, residency, border violations in KSA

Saudi authorities arrested 13,931 people from July 13-19 for breaching residency, work and border-security regulations. (SPA/File)
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Updated 22 July 2023
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14k arrested for labor, residency, border violations in KSA

  • A total of 7,667 people were arrested for violations of residency laws
  • 4,108 were held for attempting to illegally cross the border

RIYADH: Saudi authorities arrested 13,931 people from July 13-19 for breaching residency, work and border-security regulations, according to a report published by the Saudi Press Agency on Saturday.
A total of 7,667 people were arrested for violations of residency laws, while 4,108 were held for attempting to illegally cross the border. A further 2,156 were charged with labor-related issues.
The report showed that among 874 people arrested for trying to enter the Kingdom illegally, 79 percent were Yemeni and 18 percent Ethiopian. A further 85 people were caught trying to cross into neighboring countries, and nine were held for abetting violators.
The Saudi Interior Ministry said that anyone facilitating illegal entry to the Kingdom, including through the provision of transportation or shelter, could be jailed for a maximum of 15 years, fined up to SR1 million ($260,000), and have their property confiscated.
Suspected violations of visa or border-security regulations can be reported on the toll-free number 911 in the Makkah and Riyadh regions, and 999 or 996 in other regions of the Kingdom.
 


Citrus festival highlights AlUla’s heritage, economy

Updated 10 January 2026
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Citrus festival highlights AlUla’s heritage, economy

  • The rise in visitor numbers reflects the festival’s prominence as a major agricultural and community event. It runs until Jan. 16

ALULA: The AlUla Citrus Festival has seen a remarkable turnout of residents and visitors as it has coincided with the mid-year school break, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The festival is being held at the farmers’ market in the cultural oasis, amid an environment that blends stunning natural beauty with the governorate's rich agricultural heritage.

The rise in visitor numbers reflects the festival’s prominence as a major agricultural and community event. It runs until Jan. 16.

It allows visitors to explore local products and purchase citrus fruits directly from farmers, highlighting the deep connection between the people, their land, and agricultural legacy.

The festival showcases a diverse selection of AlUla’s finest citrus fruits, alongside platforms for local producers, the SPA added.

The event also features interactive family-friendly activities and live cooking demonstrations.

It contributes to revitalizing agricultural economic activity and reinforces agricultural seasons as a pillar of sustainable development in the governorate.

The AlUla Citrus Festival is a key social and economic event and gives local farmers a vital platform to showcase and sell their produce, supporting the agricultural economy of a governorate home to nearly 5,000 productive farms.