Crime in Saudi Arabia is low[1][2][3] compared to industrialized nations. Criminal activity does not typically target foreigners and is mostly drug-related.[3] Petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching does occur, but is extremely uncommon. During the period of Hajj and Umrah in the holy cities of Mecca and Medina, there have been growing incidents of pickpocketing, especially with women pickpockets becoming an increasing phenomenon.[4] Although incidents of violence are generally considered to be rare, violence has occurred more frequently due to economic pressures on expatriate workers during the last few years. In 2013, the number of crime cases reported by the Ministry of Justice was 22,113, a 102% increase from 2012.[5][6][7][8]
- ^ "Saudi Arabia Country Security Report". www.osac.gov. Retrieved 2022-06-26.
- ^ "Saudi Arabia Travel Advice". smarttraveller.gov.au. 27 June 2022. Retrieved 26 June 2022.
- ^ a b "Safety and security - Saudi Arabia travel advice". GOV.UK. Retrieved 2022-06-26.
- ^ "Crime in Saudi Arabia: What Travelers Need to Know". www.worldnomads.com. Retrieved 2022-06-26.
- ^ "Crime rate up 102%". Arab News. 24 July 2014. Retrieved 3 October 2014.
- ^ Saudi Arabia Archived 2008-08-29 at the Wayback Machine Government of Australia, Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
- ^ Saudi Arabia Archived 2008-09-01 at the Wayback Machine Foreign and Commonwealth Office
- ^ Saudi Arabia Department of Foreign Affairs