The NCB has reiterated that travellers bear personal responsibility for ensuring that any medicines they carry are compliant with Saudi laws and that all required permissions are secured well in advance of departure
Indian travellers heading to Saudi Arabia have been advised to exercise caution while carrying medicines, as the Kingdom has introduced a mandatory online permission system for certain drugs brought in for personal use. The advisory was issued by India’s Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), following official communication from the General Directorate of Narcotics Control through the India Country Office in Saudi Arabia.
According to the NCB, several medicines that are legally manufactured, prescribed, and sold in India and other countries may be either restricted or outright prohibited under Saudi Arabian law. Travellers carrying such medicines without prior approval could face regulatory action, including confiscation, fines, or legal proceedings, depending on the nature and quantity of the substances involved.
Saudi authorities have now operationalised a dedicated electronic service platform to regulate the entry of medicines by international travellers.
Under the new system, individuals intending to carry medicines for personal use must apply for permission online in advance. Applications are to be submitted through the official portal of the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) at https://cds.sfda.gov.sa. The process requires travellers to provide relevant details, including personal information, travel particulars, and specifics of the medicines being carried.
The NCB clarified that applications may be filed either directly by the traveller or through an authorised representative. However, approval must be obtained before travel, particularly in cases involving medicines that fall under controlled or sensitive categories. Saudi regulations also specify quantity limits for permitted medicines, and exceeding these limits may trigger enforcement action even if the medicine itself is allowed.
Indian nationals have been strongly urged to consult the official list of prohibited and restricted medicines issued by Saudi authorities prior to finalising their travel plans. This is especially important for passengers carrying prescription drugs for chronic conditions, pain management, mental health treatment, or post-surgical care, as some commonly used formulations may contain substances regulated under Saudi narcotics and psychotropic laws.
The advisory assumes added significance given the high volume of travel between India and Saudi Arabia for employment, business, religious pilgrimage, and tourism. With the Umrah and Hajj seasons drawing large numbers of Indian visitors each year, compliance with local health and narcotics regulations is critical to avoid inconvenience or legal complications at ports of entry.
