Penalty for Death Threats in Saudi Arabia

Threatened with death in an argument, by message or voice note, or accused of making a threat? The penalty for a death threat in Saudi Arabia is ta'zir, set by the judge according to how serious the threat was, how it was made and what came with it.

Reviewed by: Ahmed Hasan AlShehriAttorney at USUS Law FirmLast updated: 28 October 2026

What changes the penalty

• Online threats may fall under the Anti-Cyber Crime Law.
• A weapon adds a weapons charge.
• Threats within the family may fall under the Protection from Abuse Law.
• Repetition or an actual assault means a heavier penalty plus private claims.

If you are threatened

Keep the evidence as it is, do not threaten back, report to the police or Kollona Amn, and claim your private right.

Frequently asked questions

What is the penalty for threatening to kill someone in Saudi Arabia?

A ta'zir penalty set by the judge, heavier with a weapon or repetition; online threats may fall under the Anti-Cyber Crime Law.

See electronic threats and extortion and our criminal lawyer in Riyadh.

This article is general legal information and is not a substitute for advice on your specific case. Court proceedings in Saudi Arabia are in Arabic; the official Arabic text of each law prevails.