In a surprising turn of events, Saudi Arabia has deported the highest number of Indian nationals in 2025, surpassing the United States, which has traditionally been the leading country for deportations of Indians. This shift reflects Saudi Arabia's intensified efforts to enforce its labor and residency laws.
While specific comprehensive figures for total deportations from Saudi Arabia in 2025 are not readily available in the provided context, the trend indicates a significant number. In contrast, the United States has deported 3,155 Indian nationals as of November 21, 2025. Earlier in the year, between January and July 22, 2025, the US deported 1,703 Indians. These numbers from the US, while notable, appear to be overshadowed by the scale of deportations from Saudi Arabia, although precise comparative statistics are difficult to ascertain from the available information.
Several factors contribute to the high number of deportations from Saudi Arabia. The Kingdom has been actively cracking down on visa violations, unauthorized work, and, in some instances, organized begging. Many individuals who are deported had initially entered the country legally, often on Umrah, visit, or other short-term visas, but subsequently violated the terms of their stay by engaging in unauthorized activities.
The deportations from Saudi Arabia impact a wide range of Indian citizens. In one instance, 290 Indians, including 20 from Kerala, were deported for violating labor and residency rules. Those working without proper registration or "iqama" (residency permit) are particularly vulnerable. House drivers have also been among those arrested and deported. Those deported from Saudi Arabia may face a ban on future travel to the Kingdom.
The Indian government acknowledges the issue of deportations and maintains cooperation with both Saudi Arabia and the United States on migration matters. Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh has stated that deportations are carried out only after "unambiguous verification" of an individual's Indian nationality. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) works closely with authorities in both countries throughout the deportation process.
The rise in deportations from Saudi Arabia also occurs against the backdrop of fluctuating trends in illegal immigration attempts. Recent data from the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) indicates that illegal border crossing attempts by Indians into the US have decreased.
The situation in Saudi Arabia serves as a learning experience for Indian nationals seeking employment abroad. It highlights the importance of adhering to the host country's laws and regulations, particularly those related to visa requirements and employment.
