Saudi Arabia Enforces New Permit Rule for Controlled Medications — Effective Nov 1, 2025

Starting Saturday, November 1, 2025, anyone arriving in or departing from Saudi Arabia by air, land or sea must obtain advance authorization to carry medications classified as controlled. The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has launched an online clearance process to help patients travel with essential medicines while strengthening the Kingdom’s controls on narcotic and psychotropic substances.

Why this change matters for expats and pilgrims

For expatriates, pilgrims (Hajj and Umrah), and visitors who depend on prescription drugs, the new rule provides a clear, centralized way to obtain legal permission to transport certain medicines. It also reduces the risk of delays, confiscation or legal action at customs by requiring travelers to declare sensitive medications ahead of time.

The SFDA’s Controlled Drug System (CDS) is designed to protect public health and align Saudi procedures with international drug-control treaties. Travelers should treat this as a mandatory step in their pre-travel checklist.

Which medications are considered "controlled"?

Controlled medications generally include products that contain narcotic or psychotropic substances. Examples often cited by regulators include:

• Narcotic painkillers (some opioid preparations)
• Anti-anxiety medications and benzodiazepines (e.g., alprazolam/Xanax, diazepam/Valium)
• Stimulants used for ADHD (e.g., methylphenidate, amphetamine salts such as Adderall)
• Codeine- or tramadol-containing products

The SFDA publishes a full list of controlled substances and tables on its website. Always check the official list because it is the authoritative source for what requires a permit.

How to apply: Step-by-step on the SFDA CDS portal

All clearance requests must be submitted through the SFDA Controlled Drug System (CDS). Follow these steps:

1. Create a personal account on the CDS portal: https://cds.sfda.gov.sa.
2. Submit an online permit request with the patient’s details and full travel information (dates, arrival/departure ports, purpose of travel).
3. Upload supporting documents — scanned copies should be clear and legible. Required documents typically include:
   • Valid medical prescription (original or a certified copy)
   • Medical report or letter from a licensed healthcare professional explaining the medical need
   • Proof of identity (passport, national ID or iqama for residents)
4. Provide drug details for each medication: trade name, active ingredient, concentration, dosage form and pack size/quantity.
5. Review and accept terms then submit the request.
6. Track your application in CDS — statuses include Submitted, Completed, Rejected, and Incomplete. After approval, download and print the permit to present at customs.

Practical rules on quantities, packaging and presentation

Some practical points to avoid problems at customs:

• Permits are usually issued for personal use only. In practice, authorities typically allow supplies that cover the period of your stay — often up to 30 days — but verify the approved quantity in your permit.
• Keep medications in their original, clearly labelled packaging with the patient name visible where possible.
• Carry both digital and printed copies of your permit, prescription and medical report.
• If someone is applying on your behalf (for example, a family member), include written authorization and their ID details in the application.

Customs, enforcement and penalties

Bringing controlled medications into or out of Saudi Arabia without a permit can lead to confiscation, fines, and in some cases prosecution. Customs officers have the authority to inspect medications and ask for supporting documents. To reduce risk, always declare controlled medicines on arrival and present the CDS permit and related documentation when requested.

Recommended timing and best practices for expats

To avoid last-minute problems:

• Apply at least 2–3 weeks before travel to allow time for processing and any clarifications.
• Check the SFDA list of controlled substances and any updates before applying: https://www.sfda.gov.sa.
• Keep your prescribing doctor’s contact information handy in case customs needs to verify clinical details.
• If you plan to travel during Hajj or Umrah seasons, allow extra time — permits are strictly enforced for pilgrims.

Where to get official information

Authoritative resources:

• SFDA Controlled Drug System (CDS): https://cds.sfda.gov.sa
• Saudi Food and Drug Authority: https://www.sfda.gov.sa
• Saudi Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (information on customs procedures): https://zatca.gov.sa/en
• International Narcotics Control Board (traveler guidance): https://www.incb.org
• Saudi Ministry of Health: https://www.moh.gov.sa

Final tips for the Saudi expat community

If you live in Saudi Arabia or are traveling here frequently, make the CDS permit part of your routine for carrying prescription-only controlled medicines. Preparing documentation early, keeping medicines in original packaging, and making clear declarations at customs will save time and reduce the risk of complications.

The rule is designed to balance patient access with public safety. When followed correctly, the SFDA clearance process makes travel smoother and protects both travelers and the wider community from the risks of diverted or misused controlled drugs.

Note: Regulations can change. Always confirm requirements on the SFDA CDS portal or contact the SFDA directly before you travel.