Saudi unveils new plan to nab illegal expatriates

April 16, 2013

Riyadh, Apr 16: There will be three options under a new plan by the Ministry of Labor to obtain information on companies that are violating labor laws, said Adel Fakeih, minister of labor, on an MBC show hosted by Dawood Al-Shirian.

The first option is for the members of the public to report companies or individual violators by calling in the ministry through a toll free number.

The second option is self-inspection whereby the business owner can find online whether their business is committing any violations.

The third option is inspections carried out by the ministry itself.

He said that 100,000 new inspectors would join the ministry to help carry out the inspections. They will now be accompanied by police officers for effective implementation of the ministry's directives. The new program begins next month.

The minister acknowledged the contribution of the expatiate community, but said that illegal activity will not be tolerated. “We enforce the rules and regulations on every establishment with no exceptions.”

He said that about 900,000 workers have been deported in the last 18 months and that nearly 400,000 Saudis have been hired during the same period.

Fakeih said the purpose of Saudization should not be misunderstood and that expats who are legally allowed to work in the country have contributed to Saudi growth. He added that 7.5 million expats are currently legally working in the Kingdom.

Companies that employ illegals will be fined up to SR 100,000 and sentenced to two years in prison for each illegal worker they hire.

The ministry will also accept tips from the general public if they see anyone working illegally.

He said that any expat who did not get his/her iqama renewed by the sponsor can choose any company in Nitaqat's green zone and transfer the sponsorship to it without the permission of the former sponsor.

“The former sponsor loses his/her right to keep his workers if he/she fails to renew the iqama before its expiration date,” Adel said.

Fakeih clarified that children of Saudi mothers who are married to non-Saudis are considered Saudis under Nitaqat.

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SMR Public School’s ‘EXCELLENTIA’ highlights academic excellence and holistic growth

News Network

December 16,2025

Melkar (Bantwal): The 9th Annual Day celebration of SMR Public School, titled “EXCELLENTIA”, was held on December 15 with great enthusiasm and dignity, marking a significant milestone in the institution’s journey towards academic excellence and holistic development.

The programme was inaugurated by Dr. U. T. Iftikar Ali. The chief guests were Dr. Akhtar Hussain, Mr. P. Moosabba Beary, Mr. Zakaria Jokattre, and Dr. T. M. Abdul Rahuf—whose inspiring addresses motivated the students and appreciated the school’s contributions to education.

Mr. Abdul Nasir, Mr. Ibrahim Gadiyar, Mr. Razak Golthamajal, Mr. Sali Koya, Mr. Arshad Hussain, Mr. Ismail Balanoor, Mr. Feroz Bawa, Mr. Sahul Hameed, Mr. Abubakkar, Mr. Hameed K. Mani, Mr. Abdul Majeed (Principal, Melkar Women’s College), and Mr. Abdul Lathief (Former Principal, Melkar Women’s College) were the guests of honour.

The Annual Report was presented by the Headmistress, Ms. Fathimathul Zaheera, highlighting the school’s achievements and progress during the academic year. The Presidential Address was delivered by the Chairman of SMR Public School, Dr. Haji S. M. Rasheed, who emphasised the vital role of education in shaping students’ futures and stressed the importance of discipline, dedication, and consistent effort in achieving 100 per cent academic results.

Secretary of SMR Public School, Mr. Rifath Ahmed, and PTA President, Mr. Sandeep Kumar, were also present on the occasion.

The Annual Day celebration showcased the collective efforts of students and teachers and reaffirmed the school’s commitment to quality education and all-round development. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all dignitaries, parents, and well-wishers for their support. The 9th Annual Day—EXCELLENTIA—was a memorable and successful event, leaving a lasting impression on everyone present.

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