Health Alert: Saudi Arabia, New Prescription Regulations for Saudi Arabia, October 23

Effective November 1, 2025, Saudi Arabia will require advance registration for certain prescription drugs for all travelers arriving to and departing from the Kingdom. This includes, but is not limited to, travelers with common prescription pain, anxiety, and ADHD medication.

Most Common** Prescriptions Requiring Disclosure

Alprazolam (Xanax)
Adderall (Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine)
Hydrocodone/Acetaminophen (e.g., Vicodin)
Zolpidem (Ambien)
Clonazepam (Klonopin)
Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta)
Diazepam (Valium)
Codeine-containing medications
Pregabalin (Lyrica)
Tramadol (Ultram)

**See below for complete list.

Under the new rule, all travelers to the Kingdom will be required to obtain an electronic clearance from the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) for listed medications. Clearance must be obtained online in advance of arrival in the Kingdom and prior to departing the Kingdom with the listed prescription drug(s).

A complete list of relevant medications can be found on the SFDA website, under “Tables .” Clearance requests can be submitted via the Controlled Drug System (CDS) at the following link: https://cds.sfda.gov.sa/

Travelers seeking to arrive or depart the Kingdom with any of the listed medications without obtaining the clearance may encounter problems at Customs or be prevented from arriving or departing the Kingdom.

Further information can be found here: https://www.sfda.gov.sa/en/news/4292351

For Assistance Contact:

U.S. Embassy Riyadh

Abdullah Ibn Hudhafah As Sahmi Street Roundabout no. 9, Diplomatic Quarter Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Telephone: (966) (11) 835-4000

Email: RiyadhACS@state.gov

U.S. Consulate General Jeddah

Al Safa Street, Al Muhammadiyah District, near new American School building

Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Telephone: (966) (12) 220-5000

Email: JeddahACS@state.gov

U.S. Consulate General Dhahran