Saudi Academic Dr. Salem Al-Daini Imprisoned for 15 Years for Charity Work and Helping the Needy

Dr. Salem Al-Daini, a prominent Saudi academic and humanitarian, has been unjustly detained for over seven years solely for his charitable efforts and dedication to helping those in need. Arrested in 2017 amid a sweeping crackdown on intellectuals, writers, and activists, he was sentenced to 15 years in prison in a secret trial, with no formal charges or justification provided. His continued imprisonment is a stark reminder of Saudi Arabia’s repressive policies under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, targeting individuals who work for the betterment of society.
Since his arrest, Dr. Al-Daini has faced numerous human rights violations, including prolonged solitary confinement and arbitrary travel bans on all his family members. For over five years, he was denied access to the judiciary and was not allowed legal representation. Finally, he was sentenced in a secret trial without clear charges or any official justification for his conviction.
Before his detention, Dr. Al-Daini, who holds a PhD in Mechanical Engineering and a diploma in cognitive therapy, was active in Saudi society. He served as the Deputy Minister of Labor and Social Development and worked tirelessly in humanitarian efforts for over 20 years. However, just a month before his arrest, he was abruptly dismissed from his position.
This case illustrates the stark contrast between Saudi Arabia’s declared commitment to modernization and the medieval-level repression that remains prevalent. The Saudi government’s ongoing claims of reform are undermined by its excessive suppression of voices that advocate for social good or critique the state’s policies.
Together for Justice calls on the Saudi government to comply with international human rights standards, ensuring that detainees receive fair trials and access to legal defense. We urge the international community to closely monitor Saudi Arabia’s actions and hold it accountable for human rights abuses, withholding cooperation with the Saudi regime until it provides genuine and lasting improvements in its treatment of citizens and activists.