Learn about the stringent measures in Saudi Arabia regarding the withholding of expatriate passports. A prominent Saudi lawyer warns sponsors that such actions can result in severe penalties, including up to 15 years in prison and substantial fines. Understand the legal implications and recent facilities introduced for expatriates in the country.

1. Warning to Sponsors: Passport Withholding as a Serious Crime:
Explore the lawyer Zyad Al Shaalan's statement that withholding an expatriate's passport is considered a major crime, falling under human trafficking offenses according to Saudi law. Highlight the gravity of the act and its potential consequences.

2. Legal Penalties for Passport Withholding:
Detail the legal consequences sponsors may face, including imprisonment for up to 15 years and a maximum fine of SR1 million. Emphasize the severity of the penalties to deter sponsors from engaging in such practices.

3. Saudi Arabia's Expatriate Community and Recent Facilities:
Provide context about Saudi Arabia's sizable expatriate community, and mention recent facilities introduced for foreign workers. Discuss how foreign residents with exit/re-entry visas can now return until the last day of their valid visas and extend their visas electronically.

4. Labor Reforms in Saudi Arabia:
Discuss the significant labor reforms implemented in Saudi Arabia in 2020, focusing on improvements to the sponsorship system. Highlight the introduction of job mobility and regulations allowing expatriate workers to exit and re-enter without employer approval.

5. Employee Mobility and Exit/Re-entry Visa Reforms:
Explore the benefits of the labor reforms, particularly the provision for employee mobility, allowing expatriate workers to transfer between employers without the need for the employer's consent. Explain how exit and re-entry visa reforms enable travel outside Saudi Arabia without employer approval.

Understand the legal seriousness of withholding expatriate passports in Saudi Arabia, with sponsors facing severe penalties. Recognize the country's commitment to improving conditions for expatriates through recent facilities and significant labor reforms, fostering a more regulated and attractive labor market.