Indian Narcotics Bureau advises clearance for certain medicines to Saudi Arabia
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New Delhi: The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) on Friday issued an advisory cautioning Indian travellers to Saudi Arabia to obtain prior permission before carrying specific medicines, following the introduction of a mandatory online clearance system by Saudi authorities.
According to the Narcotics Control Bureau, the General Directorate of Narcotics Control, India Country Office in Saudi Arabia has formally informed Indian authorities that several medicines that are legally sold in India and other countries may either be prohibited or placed under restriction in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The NCB said it has also been conveyed that carrying medicines beyond the prescribed quantity limits could invite regulatory action under Saudi laws.
Saudi Arabia has operationalised an electronic service platform for travellers to apply for permission to carry medicines for personal use. Applications must be submitted online through the portal at https://cds.sfda.gov.sa, along with the required details. The advisory clarified that applications can be filed either by the travellers themselves or through their authorised representatives.
The NCB further advised travellers to consult the official list of restricted and prohibited medicines issued by Saudi authorities before commencing their journey. Indian travellers have been urged to verify whether the medicines they plan to carry are permitted and to secure the necessary approvals, wherever applicable, prior to travel.