Saudi Arabia has begun an experimental programme of 'rehabilitating' former militants, where they renounce violence in exchange for freedom. Since the list was issued, 15 militants have come forward.

Al-Utaibi's surrender comes days after Saudi Arabia's deputy interior minister in Jeddah survived an assassination attempt by a man wanted on terrorism charges.

The suicide bomber blew himself up in the minister's office Thursday after announcing that he was giving himself up and wanted to meet the minister, Prince Mohammed bin Nayef, who is responsible for security in the kingdom.