Massive Crackdown in Saudi Arabia: Over 18,800 Foreign Nationals Arrested in One Week, 10,000 Deported

**Jeddah:** Saudi authorities conducted a major crackdown over one week, detaining 18,836 foreign nationals for violations of residency (Iqama), labor, and border laws.

According to reports, from January 1 to 7, 11,710 people were arrested for Iqama violations, 4,239 for attempting illegal border crossings, and 2,887 for labor law infractions. A total of 10,195 illegal residents were deported.

Among those arrested, 60% were Ethiopian, 39% Yemeni, and 1% from other countries. Additionally, 46 individuals were caught attempting to cross borders into neighboring countries, and 19 facilitators involved in travel, accommodation, employment, or sheltering illegal migrants were also detained.

The crackdown underscores Saudi Arabia’s ongoing strict enforcement of its immigration and labor regulations.