JEDDAH: A total of 252,218 violators of the residence and work laws, at the rate of 840 per day, were deported from the Kingdom in the last 10 months of the Islamic calendar.
According to government statistics, security authorities, represented by the Border Guard, arrested 22,455 people (on an average 75 per day) attempting to infiltrate Saudi ports during the above mentioned period.
Nearly 12,088 violators are still waiting to complete their deportation procedures in accommodation centers designated by the state for such people.
Makkah and Riyadh regions recorded the highest percentage of offenders being deported, with a rate of nearly 55 percent.
The General Directorate of Border Guards, meanwhile, is working to transform their services to electronic transactions for achieving top safety and quality standards.
The first phase of e-services project is expected to be completed by the last quarter of this year. Services such as entry permits, ship notices, arrival and departure will be included.
The directorate also confirmed that the portal will contribute to providing integrated solutions to entities related to ports, including partners and agents of commercial vessels/cargo ships in the Kingdom and other relevant authorities.
The second phase of the e-services portal project will later be developed. It will include a number of e-services related to sailing and fishing permits in addition to driving licenses.
252,218 illegals deported in 10 months
252,218 illegals deported in 10 months
Taif festival celebrates Saudi Arabia’s literary icons
- It introduces visitors to the contributions of literary pioneers through accessible visual and narrative content
TAIF: A special section highlighting key Saudi literary figures forms part of the Writers and Readers Festival in Taif.
The area explores the lives of distinguished writers, poets, and authors who have shaped the Kingdom’s creative landscape, influencing literature, journalism, theater and intellectual thought.
It introduces visitors to the contributions of literary pioneers through accessible visual and narrative content, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Sunday.
Organized by the Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission, the festival runs until Jan. 15 and features 42 prominent publishing houses from Saudi Arabia and overseas, offering visitors the chance to explore the latest works in literature, philosophy and general knowledge.
Meanwhile, the festival’s interactive murals section engages visitors with openwork art panels, allowing them to contribute to the city’s features and identity.
The murals depict Taif’s natural and historical landmarks, including Al-Hada Mountain, the Taif rose gardens, and traditional Hijazi palaces. Others are inspired by Souq Okaz, a historic literary and commercial center linked to the region’s poetic heritage.
Designed by a visual artist, they blend folk-inspired elements with imaginative expression, creating a collaborative experience that celebrates the city’s beauty and brings art closer to the public.
