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The Latest Breaking News from the Ministry of Interior

Saudi Arabia tightens Hajj 2026 rules; violators may face SAR20,000 fine, deportation and 10-year entry ban

Saudi Arabia has implemented stringent new penalties, including hefty fines and deportation for foreign residents, for attempting to perform Hajj without an official permit. These measures aim to enhance pilgrim safety and manage overcrowding during the annual pilgrimage, with strict enforcement beginning from Dhu Al Qi'dah.

The Times of India

Saudi Arabia executes Iraqi nationals convicted in northern border drug smuggling case

Saudi Arabia has executed several Iraqi nationals. They were convicted of attempting to smuggle narcotics into the kingdom. The executions followed a thorough legal process. Saudi authorities are intensifying their crackdown on drug trafficking. This campaign targets organized criminal networks. The kingdom vows to impose strict punishments against smugglers.

The Times of India

Saudi Arabia arrests over 14,000 illegal residents in week-long crackdown, thousands deported

Saudi Arabia's nationwide crackdown resulted in the arrest of 14,487 illegal residents between April 9 and April 15. Violations included residency, border security, and labor laws, with thousands now undergoing legal procedures or deportation. The Ministry of Interior also warned of severe penalties for those aiding illegal entry.

The Times of India

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Saudi Arabia announces tough penalties for Hajj 1447 permit violations: Fines up to SAR 100,000 and 10-year entry ban

As preparations intensify for Hajj 1447 AH, Saudi Arabia has laid out a stringent penalty framework aimed at regulating pilgrim movement and preventing unauthorised participation. The Ministry of Interior’s latest announcement makes it clear that both individuals and facilitators who bypass permit rules will face steep fines, deportation, and even…

The Times of India

Kuwait tightens citizenship law under new decree, expands revocation powers and eligibility rules

Kuwait has enacted significant changes to its citizenship law, empowering the government to grant and revoke nationality with greater authority. The new decree tightens eligibility criteria, particularly for naturalisation and marriage-based applications, while reinforcing strict rules against dual nationality. These reforms aim to safeguard national identity and address past irregularities,…

The Times of India

Hajj 2026: Saudi Arabia halts Makkah entry, suspends Umrah visas and sets strict rules for pilgrims

Saudi Arabia has implemented strict entry restrictions into Makkah ahead of Hajj 2026, suspending Umrah visas to manage crowds and ensure safety. Only those with valid Hajj permits or official work/residency documents will be allowed entry from April 13. This move aims to prevent overcrowding and unauthorized participation during the…

The Times of India

Mass crackdown in Saudi Arabia: Over 14,000 illegal residents arrested in one week

Saudi Arabia's security forces have arrested over 14,000 individuals in a nationwide crackdown on illegal residents. The operation targeted violations of residency, labour, and border laws. Thousands are being deported, while others face legal procedures. Authorities are also penalizing those who aid undocumented individuals. The public is urged to report…

The Times of India

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Saudi Arabia records over 22,000 violations, arrests thousands in one-week crackdown on residency, labour and border breaches

Saudi Arabia's intensive crackdown on residency, labor, and border violations resulted in over 22,000 arrests in a single week. The majority of violations involved irregular residency status, with significant numbers also apprehended for attempting illegal entry. Authorities are expediting deportations and issuing stern warnings against facilitators, emphasizing strict penalties for…

The Times of India

Why touching shrapnel could be deadly: Qatar Ministry of Interior issues urgent public advisory

The Ministry of Interior (MOI) has issued an urgent safety guidance on the dangers of handling shrapnel after accidents or explosions. In a statement made on Tuesday, the MOI explained the need to maintain a safe distance from shrapnel and avoid touching it.

The Times of India

Middle East countries waive fines for travellers stranded due to Iran conflict

In Qatar, visit visas have automatically been extended by one month, while the UAE has said affected tourists will not have to pay any fines when they leave the country.

Euronews

Kuwait: Interior Ministry announces temporary ban on fishing boats and outdoor gatherings amid Iran-Israel conflict

Kuwait has introduced temporary safety restrictions as authorities respond to the current situation in the country and across the wider region. The Ministry of Interior announced a set of precautionary steps aimed at safeguarding citizens and residents, stressing that the measures are preventive and time-bound.

The Times of India

US–Israel war on Iran day 2: Dos, don’ts, missile alerts, school closures, other critical updates for UAE residents as emirates on high alert

As the US and Israel's military campaign against Iran escalates, the UAE implements broad public safety measures. Residents are urged to comply with official instructions, seek shelter during alerts, and avoid spreading unverified information, which carries legal penalties. Educational institutions have shifted to distance learning, and travel disruptions persist due…

The Times of India

Saudi Arabia arrests 19,077 residency, border and labour law violators in one week

A week-long nationwide enforcement drive has led to the arrest of 19,077 illegal residents across Saudi Arabia, the Ministry of Interior announced on Saturday. The coordinated inspections were conducted between February 19 and 25 by security forces working alongside relevant government agencies.

The Times of India

'Seek immediate shelter': UAE issues emergency alert to residents amid 'missile threats' and escalating Iran–US–Israel conflict

Millions in the UAE received a rare emergency alert due to heightened missile threats following Iran's retaliatory strikes. Residents were urged to seek immediate shelter, stay away from windows and await official guidance. This proactive measure highlights the swift impact of regional geopolitics on daily life, with authorities reassuring the…

The Times of India

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Euronews

Qatar says 'situation secure' after Iranian attacks foiled, urges vigilance on rumours

Iran launched retaliatory strikes on US military bases across the Gulf including in Qatar after US-Israeli attacks on Iranian targets on February 28, sharply escalating regional tensions and prompting civil defence measures.

The Times of India

Driving into Saudi Arabia? New 90-day rule for GCC vehicles explained

Vehicles bearing Gulf plates will soon face a firm time limit inside Saudi Arabia. Under new rules approved by the Saudi government, cars registered in any Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) country can no longer remain in the Kingdom beyond 90 days within a 365-day period.

The Times of India

Saudi Arabia arrests over 19,000 illegal residents in week-long crackdown

Saudi security forces apprehended over 19,000 illegal residents in a single week through coordinated campaigns. The detentions included violations of residency, border security, and labor laws, with a significant number already deported. Authorities also arrested individuals attempting to enter or leave the Kingdom illegally and those aiding violators.

The Times of India

Kuwait intensifies nationwide security crackdown: Drugs, crime, illegal businesses targeted

Kuwaiti authorities have intensified a nationwide security crackdown, targeting drug trafficking, violent crime and unlicensed businesses. Recent operations thwarted a major Captagon smuggling attempt and led to arrests for illegal liquor sales. This broad enforcement aims to restore public order and disrupt criminal networks, emphasising strict adherence to laws for…

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The Times of India

Massive crackdown: Saudi Arabia arrests over 21,000 for residency and labour law violations in one week

Saudi Arabia's crackdown on residency, labour, and border security violations yielded over 21,000 infractions in a week. Authorities arrested thousands attempting illegal entry and exit, including those aiding them. Severe penalties, including hefty fines and imprisonment, await offenders and facilitators. The ministry urges public reporting of violations.

The Times of India

Saudi Arabia cracks down: Over 20,000 arrested for residency, labour and border law violations

Saudi security agencies arrested over 20,000 individuals for violating residency, labor, and border laws during intensified enforcement operations. The crackdown, which also saw 11,656 deportations, targeted illegal residents and those aiding them. Authorities continue to warn against facilitating illegal entry, with severe penalties for offenders.

The Independent UK

Syria announces ceasefire after sectarian violence

Syria’s defense minister has announced a ceasefire after government forces entered a key city in Sweida province on Tuesday