Reporting a Theft in Saudi Arabia: Steps, What to Write and What Comes Next

Your car, phone, home or shop was burgled? A theft report in Saudi Arabia starts the case, but getting your property back and compensation needs follow-up. Here are the steps in order.

Reviewed by: Khaled ElnaggarDirector of USUS Law FirmLast updated: 28 October 2026

Steps

1. Leave the scene as it is until the authorities arrive: traces and fingerprints are evidence.
2. Report through the Kollona Amn app or a police station.
3. If cards or a phone were stolen, block the cards with your bank, suspend the SIM and change passwords.
4. Ask neighbours and nearby shops to keep camera footage.
5. Keep the report number and follow it up.

What to write

When and where; an exact description of what was stolen, including the phone's IMEI or the car plate and purchase invoices; how you found out; any grounds for suspicion stated as facts, not accusations; and the evidence. A false accusation can backfire on you.

After the report

Criminal investigation officers must accept, examine and record reports and notify the Public Prosecution (Criminal Procedure Law, Art. 27). The victim may claim return of the property or its value (Art. 16), and must be notified if the case is closed (Art. 64).

Frequently asked questions

How do I report a theft in Saudi Arabia?

Through the Kollona Amn app or the nearest police station, with an exact description, the time and place and the evidence; keep the report number.

See theft penalty in Saudi Arabia 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.