RIYADH, September 17, 2026: The Saudi General Directorate of Passports (Jawazat) announced that it issued 22,894 administrative decisions regarding violations of Iqama (residency), labor, and border security regulations during the month of Rabi al-Awwal 1448 Hijri. Penalties for these violations include fines, financial penalties, and deportation, depending on the severity of the offense. Here are the key details: Saudi Jawazat issued 22,894 administrative decisions for residency and labor violations in one month. Penalties include fines, financial penalties, and deportation. Authorities warned against harboring, employing, or transporting violators.
The Jawazat has issued a formal warning to citizens, expatriates, and business owners, strictly prohibiting the harboring, employment, or transportation of individuals who are in violation of residency laws. Assisting or providing shelter to such individuals is categorized as a punishable offense.
Authorities have provided mechanisms for reporting violations. Individuals can report illegal activities by dialing 911 in the regions of Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province, or by calling 999 in all other regions. The Directorate assured that all reports will be handled with strict confidentiality and that complainants will not face any legal liability.
Expatriates are strongly advised to keep their Iqama status updated, monitor their records via the Absher and Muqeem portals, and avoid engaging with or sheltering undocumented individuals. This information was released in coordination with official updates from the Saudi Jawazat, as noted on their official X account, @AljawazatKSA, which included imagery from the Jawazat counter at King Abdulaziz Airport. These details were sourced from Arab Times Online on September 17, 2026.
