Saudi authorities arrest 18,428 in one week for residency, labor breaches

Saudi authorities arrested 18,428 people in a single week for breaching residency, work and border-security regulations. (SPA/File)
Short Url
Updated 16 December 2023
Follow

Saudi authorities arrest 18,428 in one week for residency, labor breaches

  • 2,463 were arrested for labor-related issues
  • 61 people were caught trying to cross into neighboring countries

RIYADH: Saudi authorities arrested 18,428 people in a single week for breaching residency, work and border-security regulations, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.
According to an official report, a total of 11,664 people were arrested for violations of residency laws, while 4,301 were held for involvement in illegal border crossings. A further 2,463 were arrested for labor-related issues.
The report stated that of 1,000 people arrested for trying to enter the Kingdom illegally, 360 were Yemeni, 620 Ethiopian, and 20 were from other countries.
A further 61 people were caught trying to cross into neighboring countries, while 11 were held for involvement in transporting and harboring violators.
The Saudi Ministry of Interior said that anyone found to be facilitating illegal entry to the Kingdom, including providing transportation or shelter, could face up to 15 years in prison, a maximum fine of SR1 million ($260,000), and could have their vehicles and property seized.
Suspected violations can be reported on the toll-free number 911 in Makkah and Riyadh, and 999 or 996 in other regions of the Kingdom.


King Abdulaziz Camel Festival draws 3,000 foreign visitors

The event, which runs until Jan. 3, is a key feature of the country's cultural tourism offering. (SPA)
Updated 27 December 2025
Follow

King Abdulaziz Camel Festival draws 3,000 foreign visitors

  • Through interactive exhibits and educational presentations, people can gain a deeper understanding of the cultural value camels hold in the Kingdom

RIYADH: The 10th King Abdulaziz Camel Festival is drawing record numbers of international tourists, solidifying its reputation as a premier cultural and heritage event in the Kingdom, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The event, which runs until Jan. 3, is a key feature of the country's cultural tourism offering. According to its organizers, more than 3,000 people from over 50 countries have already visited.

The festival combines a rich array of cultural and entertainment programs that introduce visitors to the world of camels, from their various breeds to their significance in Saudi heritage.

Through interactive exhibits and educational presentations, people can gain a deeper understanding of the cultural value camels hold in the Kingdom.

Many visitors have expressed admiration for the quality of the festival’s organization and the hospitality they received, with some describing it as a “living museum,” the report said.