Saudi Arabia arrests 20,237 illegals in one week

Suspected violations 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. (AFP)
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Updated 07 February 2026
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Saudi Arabia arrests 20,237 illegals in one week

  • A total of 12,687 people were arrested for violations of residency laws, while 4,318 were held over illegal border crossing attempts, and a further 3,232 for labor-related issues

RIYADH: Saudi authorities arrested 20,237 people in one week for breaching residency, work and border security regulations, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.

A total of 12,687 people were arrested for violations of residency laws, while 4,318 were held over illegal border crossing attempts, and a further 3,232 for labor-related issues.

The Ministry of Interior said that anyone found to be facilitating illegal entry to the Kingdom, including providing transportation and shelter, could face imprisonment for a maximum of 15 years, a fine of up to SR1 million ($267,000), as well as confiscation of vehicles and property.

Suspected violations 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.

 


Two Holy Mosques launch Ramadan operational plan

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Two Holy Mosques launch Ramadan operational plan

MAKKAH: The Presidency of Religious Affairs at the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque announced full readiness for Ramadan, implementing an operational plan based on 10 strategic pillars, comprising more than 100 initiatives and several educational, guidance, and counseling programs.

The presidency said the plan supports the educational and outreach role of the Two Holy Mosques and aims to enrich the spiritual experience of pilgrims and visitors with programs designed for the season.

It uses digital tools and expands language and translation services to accommodate worshippers’ diverse cultural and linguistic needs, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Monday.

Key elements include religious lessons, Qur’an memorization, guidance and counseling services, and dedicated channels for religious inquiries.

Additionally, the presidency is launching initiatives in religious and intellectual awareness, distributing the Holy Qur’an, educational booklets, and awareness messages to support worshippers’ understanding and spiritual development.

The presidency affirmed that its human resources, operational systems, and technological infrastructure are prepared to provide services that help pilgrims perform rituals safely and comfortably.