The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has released detailed procedures for obtaining clearance permits for controlled drugs containing narcotic and psychotropic substances for travelers entering or leaving Saudi Arabia. The move underlines SFDA’s commitment to supporting patients’ travel needs while ensuring public safety and regulatory compliance.

According to SFDA, all information related to permits is available through its Controlled Drugs System (CDS) at https://cds.sfda.gov.sa. Travelers can apply online by creating a personal account, submitting an electronic clearance request with patient and trip details, and uploading required documents such as a prescription, medical report, and proof of identity.

The platform allows applicants to register multiple medications by entering precise details, including trade name, active ingredient, concentration, and quantity or pack size. Supporting documents must demonstrate the medical necessity of the drugs, whether for the traveler or another patient. Applications can be monitored in real time, with status updates marked as “Submitted,” “Completed,” “Rejected,” or “Incomplete.”

The SFDA emphasized that the guideline aims to regulate the entry and exit of controlled drugs, safeguard patient rights, and prevent misuse. By digitizing the process, travelers now benefit from a faster, more secure, and convenient system, with requests submitted anytime and from anywhere, removing the need for additional procedures.