Saudi Arabia’s Crackdown on Sex Workers in Massage Parlours

Foreigners Arrested in Saudi Arabia’s Anti-Immorality Sweep

​Saudi Arabia has recently intensified efforts to combat “immoral acts,” leading to the arrest of over 50 individuals, including 11 women on prostitution charges. The newly established Ministry of Interior unit, focusing on “community security and human trafficking,” conducted operations resulting in the detention of these individuals, marking a significant acknowledgment of such activities within the kingdom. ​

This crackdown also targeted foreign nationals operating in massage parlors, with authorities detaining individuals involved in activities deemed immoral. The enforcement actions have sparked discussions about a potential return to stricter religious policing, reminiscent of the kingdom’s past practices, while others view it as a necessary step to address human trafficking concerns.

Historically, prostitution in Saudi Arabia has been illegal, with punishments ranging from imprisonment and fines to, in extreme cases, death. The recent actions highlight the government’s commitment to enforcing existing laws and addressing public concerns about moral and social issues.

The public’s response to these developments is mixed, with some supporting the government’s stance against human trafficking and immoral acts, while others express concern over a perceived return to stringent religious policing. These events occur in the context of Saudi Arabia’s ongoing social and economic transformations under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, as the nation seeks to balance modernization with traditional values.