As set out in the report, numerous rights guaranteed by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights continue to be violated – specifically the prohibition of torture and arbitrary arrests and detentions, fair trial norms, and freedom of expression, association and peaceful assembly, often in the name of counter-terrorism measures. Highlighting its lack of independence, the judicial system is often used to repress human rights defenders carrying out their legitimate activities.

Alkarama's first UPR report for Saudi Arabia was issued in September 2008, in view of its February 2009 review. It also highlighted concerns about wide-spread arbitrary arrests and detention, including of human rights defenders, as well as the use of torture and other related abuses, and the consistent lack of independence of the justice system. Recommendations addressing these concerns were accepted by Saudi Arabia , but as demonstrated in Alkarama's second contribution, these have not been implemented.