Regulations for bringing restricted medications into Saudi Arabia for pilgrims | Food and Drug Administration

The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has issued a comprehensive clarification of the regulations and procedures for obtaining personal release permits for restricted medications in the possession of pilgrims arriving in the Kingdom. This announcement comes as part of the SFDA's ongoing efforts to serve the guests of God, facilitate their spiritual journey, and ensure their health and safety during their pilgrimage.

General context and importance of organization

Saudi Arabia receives millions of pilgrims annually from around the world, many of whom suffer from chronic health conditions requiring continuous medication. Some of these medications, particularly those containing psychoactive or narcotic substances, are classified as controlled drugs. Regulating their importation aims to strike a delicate balance between enabling patients to continue their treatment without interruption and preventing any misuse of these medications for purposes other than their legitimate medical use, thus ensuring the preservation of public health and social security in the Kingdom.

Requirements for obtaining a release permit

The authority indicated that obtaining a permit requires fulfilling a set of basic requirements before submitting the application electronically. These requirements include the following:

• Medical report or prescription: A recent medical report or an approved prescription that is no more than 6 months old must be submitted.
• Proof of identity: A copy of the applicant's (patient's) passport.
• Drug details: A clear image of the drug's container and outer packaging showing all the information related to it.
• Permitted quantity: The amount carried must be sufficient for the duration of the stay in the Kingdom or for a maximum of 30 days, whichever is less, based on the therapeutic dose specified in the medical report.
• Electronic declaration: Acceptance of the electronic declaration available within the application form.

Impact and importance at both the local and international levels

The importance of these measures lies in enhancing the pilgrims' experience, providing them with clarity and reassurance before their journey and preventing any delays or legal issues upon arrival at Saudi ports of entry. Domestically, these controls contribute to strengthening the health regulatory system and ensuring that controlled medications do not fall into illicit hands. Internationally, this step reflects the Kingdom's commitment to the highest global standards in crowd management and regulating the entry of controlled substances, further solidifying its position as a safe and well-organized destination for religious pilgrimages.

Application process

To facilitate the process for pilgrims performing Hajj and Umrah, the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has enabled the electronic submission of permits through the Electronic System for Restricted Medicines (CDS). Users can create a personal account on the platform via the link: https://cds.sfda.gov.sa, and then follow the steps outlined in the user guide available in Arabic and English on the SFDA's official website to complete the application process easily and conveniently before their travel date.