In a major relief for intending Umrah pilgrims who rely on essential medications, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has unveiled a simplified electronic approval process to facilitate the carriage of narcotic and psychotropic drugs during travel for religious purposes. This move, initiated by the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA), is aimed at ensuring that pilgrims undergoing medical treatment are not hindered in accessing necessary medications while performing their spiritual obligations.
The newly introduced digital platform allows travelers to obtain prior clearance for carrying controlled substances into or out of the Kingdom, thereby eliminating past delays and challenges typically faced at Saudi entry points. By digitizing what used to be a manual and often time-consuming process, the SFDA is aiming to improve the pilgrim experience while upholding regulatory standards around the importation of sensitive medications.
Pilgrims are now required to register on the Controlled Drug System (CDS) via the official website at cds.sfda.gov.sa. Once registered, applicants must upload essential documents including valid personal identification, certified medical prescriptions, details of their travel itinerary, and precise information about the medication—such as brand names, active ingredients, and quantities. The system is designed to handle multiple medication requests in a single application, and applicants can conveniently track the progress of their submissions in real time, with status updates categorized as Submitted, Completed, Rejected, or Incomplete.
According to SFDA guidelines, strict adherence to documentation requirements is mandatory. Medical prescriptions must clearly outline the necessity of each drug, and the medication packaging must match the information provided in the application. Each traveler is allowed to carry a maximum 30-day supply per declared substance, and permits are valid strictly within the dates stated in the approved itinerary. Travelers are expected to print out approved permits for mandatory presentation at immigration and customs checkpoints upon arrival in the Kingdom.
Saudi authorities are urging all intending pilgrims to begin the clearance process well ahead of their departure dates to ensure smooth processing and avoid last-minute inconveniences. The updated system not only streamlines procedures but also ensures that pilgrims do not face disruption in their medical treatments while undertaking the sacred journey.
For updates, further information, or clarification, pilgrims are advised to consult the SFDA website or use the customer support options available on the CDS platform. This development underscores Saudi Arabia’s ongoing commitment to improving the experience and safety of millions of pilgrims visiting the holy sites, while maintaining strict control over the movement of regulated medications.
