Kafala System

Saudi Arabia Arrests, Deports Thousands of Illegal Residents in One Week

In a recent crackdown on illegal residents, Saudi Arabia has arrested almost 19,000 individuals over the course of one week. The Ministry of Interior reported that over 10,000 of those arrested have already been deported, demonstrating a strong commitment to enforcing immigration laws. These arrests are part of a broader initiative aimed at combating residency violations and ensuring compliance with the kingdom’s regulations. The operation highlights Saudi Arabia’s ongoing efforts to maintain security and manage its foreign population effectively.

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Saudi Arabia Abolishes Kafala: New Rights for Millions, Implementation Challenges Remain

The Saudi government has announced the end of its Kafala system, a decades-old labor framework that bound migrant workers to their employers. This significant reform, slated for implementation in June 2025, will grant an estimated 13 million foreign workers greater freedom. The ability to change jobs and exit the country without sponsor consent marks a crucial step toward improved worker rights and increased mobility within the Kingdom.

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