Archive · 2 Jan 2026
Saudi Arabia Executes 356 in 2025
Saudi Arabia executed 356 people in 2025, which is the highest number in one year.
Most of these executions were because of drug-related crimes.
The country started executing people for drugs again in 2022 after a few years of not doing so.
Many people, especially foreigners, have been caught and punished for bringing drugs into the country.
Some people think this is too harsh, but the Saudi government says it's necessary to keep the country safe.
Saudi Arabia is also trying to improve its image and economy by hosting big events like the 2034 World Cup.
Saudi Arabia executed 356 people in 2025, setting a new record.
243 of these executions were for drug-related offenses.
This is the second consecutive year Saudi Arabia has set a record for executions.
The surge in executions is attributed to the country's 'war on drugs' launched in recent years.
Critics argue the executions undermine Saudi Arabia's efforts to present a modern image.
- Who
- Saudi authorities
- What
- Executed 356 people in 2025, setting a new record
- When
- Throughout 2025, with a surge attributed to the 'war on drugs'
- Where
- Saudi Arabia
- Why
- Part of an ongoing 'war on drugs' and to maintain public order, according to authorities
Saudi Government
Human Rights Groups
Purpose of Executions
Saudi Government
Necessary for maintaining public order and combating drug trafficking.
Human Rights Groups
Excessive and undermines Saudi Arabia's reform efforts and human rights image.
- Total Executions in 2025
- 356
- Drug-Related Executions in 2025
- 243
- Executions in 2024
- 338
- Year Executions Resumed for Drug Offences
- 2022
- Major Illicit Stimulant in Saudi Arabia
- Captagon
- Criticism Source
- Rights groups and activists
- Saudi Arabia's Reform Agenda
- Vision 2030
- Upcoming Major Sports Event
- 2034 FIFA World Cup
