A relative charged with attempted murder after a fight, a stabbing or a shooting? Attempted murder in Saudi Arabia carries a ta'zir penalty set by the judge; no written law fixes a figure. Intent, the weapon and the injuries actually caused decide it.
Reviewed by: Ahmad Farag Al-Sayed MuhammadHead of the Criminal Department at USUS Law FirmLast updated:
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What decides the case
- Proof of intent to kill, not just to assault.
- A weapon that usually kills, used on a vital area.
- Death prevented by something outside the attacker's control.
The victim keeps private claims for injuries (arsh or retaliation for wounds where its conditions are met) and compensation. A pardon ends the private claim only.
Frequently asked questions
What is the penalty for attempted murder in Saudi Arabia?
A ta'zir penalty set by the judge according to proven intent, the weapon, the injuries and prior record, plus the victim's private claims.
See our criminal lawyer in Riyadh.
Legal review: the Usus Law Firm team
A select team of lawyers and legal advisers licensed by the Saudi Ministry of Justice, working from Riyadh and Tabuk, with experience before the general, commercial, labor, criminal, personal status and administrative courts. Every article is reviewed before publication and updated when laws or regulations change.
Last reviewed: 29 October 2026
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.
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