Saudi Authorities Release Dr. Abdulaziz Al-Tarefe After Years of Arbitrary Detention

SANAD Human Rights Organization has learned that Saudi authorities have released prominent scholar and preacher Dr. Abdulaziz Al-Tarefe after years of arbitrary detention since April 2016. His arrest was based on posts he shared on the platform [X], in which he called for justice and the defense of people’s legitimate rights.

This release comes after years of enforced disappearance and imprisonment without a fair public trial, during which Dr. Al-Tarefe was subjected to harsh conditions, including denial of access to medical care and communication, as well as severe restrictions on his family.

According to information received by SANAD, Dr. Al-Tarefe remains banned from public speaking, publishing, and traveling — a continued violation of his fundamental rights as a citizen.

SANAD Human Rights Organization congratulates Dr. Al-Tarefe and his family on his release, viewing it as a positive but insufficient step as long as he remains deprived of full freedom. The organization calls on Saudi authorities to restore his rights to expression and travel without restrictions and to lift all arbitrary measures imposed on him.

SANAD also renews its call for the immediate and unconditional release of all prisoners of conscience and peaceful activists in Saudi Arabia, and urges an end to repressive policies that contradict international law and basic human rights.