How to Get a Permit for Controlled Medicines in Saudi Arabia

Travelling to or from Saudi Arabia with medicines that contain narcotic or psychotropic substances requires an official permit from the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA). The SFDA’s online Controlled Drug System (CDS) makes applying straightforward for expatriates, visitors and residents — while protecting public health and reducing the risk of misuse. This guide walks Saudi Arabia’s expat community through the full process, required documents, common pitfalls and practical tips so you can travel with needed medicines without surprises.

Why a permit is required

Controlled substances are tightly regulated in Saudi Arabia. The permit system balances two goals: ensuring legitimate patients can travel with essential medication and preventing illegal distribution or abuse. The SFDA requires a clearance permit for any narcotic or psychotropic medicine carried into or out of the Kingdom, whether for your own use or for another named patient.

Where to apply

All permits are issued online through the SFDA Controlled Drug System (CDS). Create an account and manage applications at the official portal: https://cds.sfda.gov.sa. For additional SFDA regulations and guidance (Arabic), see: SFDA Traveler Clearance Permit for Controlled Drugs User Manual (Arabic).

Step-by-step application process

1. Create an account: Visit the CDS platform and register a personal account with your email and contact information.
2. Complete the application form: Provide full patient details and trip information (arrival/departure dates, ports of entry/exit, airline, destination country).
3. Upload supporting documents: Scan or photograph and upload the required paperwork (see checklist below).
4. List each medicine: If carrying more than one controlled medicine, provide separate details for each product — trade name, active ingredient, concentration, dosage form and quantity or package size.
5. Supply proof of medical necessity: Attach a valid prescription or recent medical report that confirms why the medicine is needed and links it to the named patient.
6. Agree and submit: Read the terms and conditions on CDS, then submit the application. You will be able to track the application status online.

Document checklist

• Valid prescription or medical report from a licensed doctor that includes diagnosis, medicine names, doses and duration.
• Proof of identity for the patient (passport page with photo and details or national ID for residents).
• Clear details or images of the medicine packaging (brand name, active ingredient, strength and quantity).
• If carrying for another person: documentation linking the medicine to the named patient (medical report or prescription in that patient’s name).

Tracking your application

The CDS platform shows live status updates for each request. Typical statuses are:

• Submitted — application received;
• Incomplete — more information or documents are needed;
• Rejected — application denied (check reasons and reapply if appropriate);
• Completed — permit approved and ready to print.

Once approved, print the clearance permit and carry it with your medicines to present to airport or border officials.

Key rules and legal points expats must know

• Personal use only: Permits are generally granted for quantities consistent with personal use for the period of travel. Carrying larger amounts can trigger further checks or legal action.
• Carry original documents: Keep prescriptions, medical reports and the printed SFDA permit with the medicines at all times while travelling.
• Match the permit: Medicines presented to officials must match those listed on the permit (names, strengths and quantities).
• Consequences of non-compliance: Confiscation, fines or criminal prosecution are possible if you fail to declare controlled medicines or lack required documents.

Practical tips for expatriates

• Carry medicines in their original labelled containers showing dosage and patient name where possible.
• Have medical reports or prescriptions translated into English or Arabic if issued in another language — attach translations to your application and bring copies when you travel.
• Plan ahead: apply early. While the CDS platform is available 24/7, allow time for document gathering and any potential requests for additional information.
• Check airline and destination country rules. Some carriers or countries have extra restrictions for controlled drugs.
• If you are carrying medication for another person, ensure you have full documentation confirming that person’s identity and medical need.

Recent improvements and context

SFDA’s CDS process has been streamlined in recent updates to reduce waiting times and paperwork, making it faster for travellers to obtain clearance. This online-first approach also supports public health and border security objectives while easing the journey for legitimate patients — a key concern for Saudi Arabia’s large expatriate community.

When to contact SFDA or your healthcare provider

If you have questions about the permit status, required documents or the details to include for a specific medicine, contact the SFDA through the CDS platform support options. Also consult your prescribing doctor for a clear, current medical report and a prescription that matches expected travel quantities.

Official resources

Start your application and find the official user manual here:

• SFDA Controlled Drug System (CDS) — English & application portal
• SFDA Traveler Clearance Permit for Controlled Drugs User Manual — Arabic

Final note for the expat community

For expatriates living in or travelling through Saudi Arabia, following the SFDA permit process protects your health and keeps you on the right side of the law. With the CDS platform, most requests can be handled online — but preparation is key. Gather clear medical reports and prescriptions, submit a complete application, and carry the printed permit and original documents when you travel. Doing so will help you avoid delays, seizures or legal issues and ensure your medicines travel with you safely.

If you’re unsure about a specific medication or situation, contact SFDA via the CDS portal or speak with your healthcare provider before travel.