The Saudi General Directorate of Passports, known as Al-Jawazat, has announced that 22,894 administrative decisions were issued during the month of Rabi' al-Awwal 1448 Hijri (approximately August 2026). These penalties were imposed on both Saudi citizens and expatriates found in violation of residency, labor, and border security regulations. Here are the key details from the announcement:
- 22,894 administrative decisions were issued against violators in August 2026.
- Penalties apply to both Saudi citizens and expatriates.
- Actions include jail time, financial fines, and deportation.
The enforcement actions emphasize the strict consequences for failing to maintain valid residency permits (Iqama), breaching labor laws, or violating border security protocols. The authority warned citizens, residents, and business owners against facilitating or harboring individuals who are in the country illegally, including providing them with employment, housing, or transportation.
To report such violations, the public is advised to call 911 for the regions of Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province, and 999 for all other areas of the Kingdom. The Directorate confirmed that all reports will be treated with confidentiality and that whistleblowers will face no legal liability. Authorities highlighted that the primary focus of these ongoing monthly campaigns is to ensure compliance with the nation's immigration statutes. Expatriates, particularly those with expired Iqamas, are urged to renew their documentation immediately to avoid severe repercussions, which may include permanent bans on re-entry to the country following deportation. This data reflects official reports from Al-Jawazat, the Saudi Gazette, and the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).
