Foreigners living in or visiting Saudi Arabia are subject to the Kingdom’s drug laws.

This includes tourists, expatriates, business travelers, students, workers, and other foreign nationals.

Saudi Arabia maintains strict controls over cannabis and other controlled substances. The country’s official controlled-substance schedules list cannabis, cannabis resin, extracts and tinctures of cannabis among controlled substances. The current schedules were updated by the Saudi Food and Drug Authority in September 2026.

The U.S. Department of State’s current Saudi Arabia travel advisory also warns that marijuana, cannabis and CBD products are illegal in Saudi Arabia and that drug-related offenses can result in severe criminal penalties.

This guide explains what foreigners and expats should know.

Important: This article is general information, not legal advice. Actual consequences depend on the facts of a case and the applicable Saudi law.

Do Saudi cannabis laws apply to foreigners?

Yes.

Foreign nationals are subject to Saudi law while they are in Saudi Arabia.

There is no general exemption allowing tourists or expatriates to possess cannabis because it is legal in their home country.

The Saudi controlled-substance schedules prohibit various activities involving controlled cannabis substances, including importing, possessing, selling, distributing, transporting and using them, subject to the specific provisions and exceptions of Saudi law.

Is marijuana legal for expats in Saudi Arabia?

No general recreational marijuana market exists in Saudi Arabia.

Expats should not assume that they can legally possess or consume marijuana privately.

The country’s official schedules identify cannabis and cannabis resin as controlled substances.

Can foreigners smoke weed in Saudi Arabia?

Foreigners should not use recreational cannabis in Saudi Arabia.

Saudi law applies regardless of nationality.

The current U.S. travel advisory specifically states that penalties for using, possessing, making, buying or selling drugs in Saudi Arabia are severe and includes marijuana and related products.

Can expats buy cannabis in Saudi Arabia?

There is no general legal recreational cannabis market for expats.

A person claiming to sell marijuana legally does not establish that the transaction is authorized.

Foreigners should be particularly cautious about online sellers, social-media accounts and informal dealers claiming that cannabis is available legally.

Can tourists bring marijuana into Saudi Arabia?

Tourists should not bring marijuana into Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Arabia’s official controlled-substance rules prohibit the importation of controlled cannabis substances, and ZATCA lists drugs of all kinds among prohibited traveler goods.

This applies even when the product was purchased legally in another country.

What happens if an expat is caught with cannabis?

A suspected cannabis offense can lead to investigation and criminal proceedings.

The consequences depend on factors such as:

• The substance involved
• Quantity
• Circumstances of possession
• Whether there is evidence of use
• Whether there is evidence of distribution
• Whether the substance crossed the border
• Previous offenses
• The applicable legal classification

The U.S. State Department warns that convicted offenders can face long prison sentences, heavy fines, deportation and, for certain drug offenses, the death penalty.

This does not mean every cannabis case receives the same punishment.

Can a foreigner be arrested for cannabis use?

Yes.

Foreign nationals can be investigated or arrested when authorities suspect a drug offense.

The U.S. State Department warns that authorities may detain people for drug-related offenses and that drug laws are strictly enforced.

Anyone actually arrested should obtain qualified Saudi legal counsel.

Can a foreigner be deported for cannabis?

Immigration consequences can arise after a criminal case.

However, deportation should not be treated as an automatic substitute for criminal proceedings.

The applicable outcome depends on the offense, court proceedings, sentence and immigration status.

The U.S. State Department identifies deportation among possible consequences for convicted drug offenders.

Can an expat lose their residence permit?

A criminal drug case can have consequences beyond the criminal sentence.

Foreign residents may also face immigration or employment consequences depending on the case.

An expat should therefore not assume that a drug offense is only a criminal-law issue.

Can a foreigner be banned from Saudi Arabia?

Immigration restrictions can follow criminal proceedings.

The exact consequences depend on the circumstances and the applicable immigration and criminal rules.

Anyone facing an actual case should obtain advice from a qualified Saudi lawyer and, where appropriate, their embassy or consulate.

Does nationality make a difference?

Nationality does not create a general exemption from Saudi narcotics law.

A British, American, Canadian, Pakistani, Indian, Filipino, European or other foreign national remains subject to Saudi law while in the Kingdom.

The same basic principle applies to tourists and long-term residents.

What about cannabis that was legal in another country?

Foreign legality does not automatically transfer to Saudi Arabia.

For example, marijuana purchased legally in a jurisdiction where recreational cannabis is permitted remains subject to Saudi law if brought into Saudi Arabia.

The same applies to cannabis products purchased from licensed dispensaries abroad.

Can expats bring CBD into Saudi Arabia?

CBD requires particular caution.

Saudi Arabia’s current official schedules contain specific provisions concerning cannabidiol (CBD) derived or prepared from herbal sources. The current rules prohibit bringing, importing, possessing, selling, distributing, transporting and using such compounds, subject to specified exceptions.

The U.S. State Department’s current travel advisory also states that CBD products and derivatives are illegal in Saudi Arabia.

Therefore, expats should not assume that a CBD product is safe to bring into the Kingdom.

Is hemp legal for foreigners?

The word hemp does not by itself determine a product’s legal status.

Products sold as hemp can contain different ingredients, including CBD, THC or other cannabinoids.

The exact product and applicable Saudi rules must be considered.

Can expats bring CBD oil?

Foreign residents should not assume that CBD oil is permitted.

Before traveling, check the exact ingredients and the current Saudi regulatory requirements.

A product being sold legally in the United States, Canada, Europe or another country does not automatically authorize its importation into Saudi Arabia.

Can foreigners bring CBD gummies?

The same caution applies to CBD gummies.

Changing the product into a food or supplement does not necessarily change its regulatory status.

Do not rely on statements such as “THC-free” or “hemp-derived” without verifying the exact product.

Can expats bring THC products?

Foreigners should not bring recreational THC products into Saudi Arabia.

Examples include:

• THC oil
• THC gummies
• THC vape cartridges
• Cannabis concentrates
• Cannabis extracts
• Cannabis edibles

Saudi Arabia maintains strict controls over cannabis-related substances.

What about cannabis seeds?

Cannabis plants and seeds are specifically addressed in Saudi Arabia’s prohibited-plant schedule.

The current schedule identifies Cannabis sativa, including its male and female forms and various names such as marijuana and hashish, as well as cannabis seeds.

Foreigners should therefore not import or carry cannabis seeds into Saudi Arabia.

What about cannabis plants?

Cannabis plants are not ordinary permitted agricultural products.

The official schedule places cannabis plants among prohibited plants and seeds.

Foreigners should not attempt to cultivate, import or possess cannabis plants in Saudi Arabia.

What about medical cannabis?

Medical cannabis requires special attention.

A foreign prescription does not automatically establish permission to bring a cannabis product into Saudi Arabia.

The U.S. Department of State currently states that Saudi Arabia does not allow the importation of marijuana or CBD products even when prescribed by a medical provider.

For any medication containing a controlled substance, foreigners should verify the specific medicine with the Saudi Food and Drug Authority before traveling.

What about ordinary prescription medicines?

Not every prescription medicine is treated as cannabis or as a narcotic.

However, some medicines require approval before entering or leaving Saudi Arabia.

The U.S. State Department specifically advises travelers to check whether prescription medicines require special authorization and to carry medicines in original packaging with the doctor’s prescription.

Can an expat bring prescription medication from home?

Potentially, depending on the medicine.

Saudi pharmaceutical regulations allow certain non-prohibited medicines to enter for personal use subject to applicable requirements. The regulations refer to personal quantities and medical documentation.

Controlled substances can have additional requirements.

Before traveling, check the exact active ingredient rather than relying only on the brand name.

What if a prescription contains a controlled substance?

If a prescription contains a controlled drug or psychotropic substance, additional Saudi requirements may apply.

The Saudi Food and Drug Authority operates procedures for travelers carrying qualifying controlled medicines.

Do not assume that a prescription from another country is sufficient by itself.

Can expats order cannabis online?

Ordering cannabis online does not make it legal.

The U.S. State Department specifically warns that Saudi drug laws apply to marijuana and related products ordered from online retailers through the mail.

Foreign residents should therefore not attempt to have cannabis shipped to a Saudi address.

Can CBD be shipped to Saudi Arabia?

Do not assume that international shipping makes CBD legal.

Imported products remain subject to Saudi customs and product regulations.

If a product is prohibited, shipping it rather than carrying it personally does not create a legal exemption.

What happens if cannabis is found in an expat’s apartment?

Authorities can investigate suspected drug offenses wherever they occur.

An apartment or private residence does not create a general exemption from Saudi drug law.

If an expat is facing an actual search, arrest or investigation, professional legal assistance is appropriate.

What happens if cannabis is found in a car?

The circumstances surrounding possession and control can become relevant to an investigation.

Expats should never transport packages or substances for another person without knowing what they contain.

This is particularly important in a country with strict narcotics enforcement.

What if a friend leaves cannabis in your home?

Do not assume that another person’s ownership automatically resolves the issue.

If prohibited substances are discovered, authorities may investigate the circumstances and the people connected to the location.

If you discover cannabis in your property, obtain appropriate legal advice rather than attempting to conceal or destroy it.

Can employers test expats for cannabis?

Employment policies and drug-testing rules can vary by employer and circumstances.

A foreign worker should review their employment agreement and applicable Saudi workplace regulations.

Drug-related criminal law is separate from an employer’s internal policies.

Can a blood test cause legal problems?

The current U.S. travel advisory warns that if a blood test in Saudi Arabia detects illicit substances consumed before travel, a person can still be arrested.

This is an important point for foreigners who believe that consuming cannabis legally before entering Saudi Arabia eliminates all potential risk.

Anyone concerned about a specific medical or legal situation should obtain professional advice before traveling.

Can foreigners use cannabis before flying to Saudi Arabia?

Travelers should be cautious about assuming that consumption outside Saudi Arabia can never have consequences after arrival.

The U.S. State Department specifically warns that detection of illicit substances in a blood test can result in arrest even where consumption occurred before travel.

Because this involves potentially serious legal consequences, travelers with concerns should seek qualified legal advice before entering the Kingdom.

What should expats do if they are arrested?

If you are actually arrested or detained:

Contact a Saudi lawyer

A qualified local lawyer can explain the applicable procedure and legal rights.

Contact your embassy or consulate

Foreign nationals can seek appropriate consular assistance.

Preserve documents

Keep relevant prescriptions, medical records, identification documents and other evidence.

Do not destroy evidence

Do not attempt to conceal, alter or destroy evidence.

Do not rely on online comments

A Reddit post, social-media comment or anonymous website cannot substitute for advice from a qualified Saudi attorney.

Can an embassy cancel a Saudi drug case?

No.

An embassy can provide consular assistance to its citizen, but it cannot override Saudi law or order Saudi authorities to dismiss a criminal case.

Consular assistance may include helping a citizen contact family, explaining local procedures and providing information about lawyers.

What are the biggest mistakes expats make?

Mistake 1: Applying home-country law

Legal cannabis in another country does not mean legal cannabis in Saudi Arabia.

Mistake 2: Assuming CBD is harmless

CBD products require specific attention because Saudi regulations address CBD compounds.

Mistake 3: Trusting “hemp-derived” labels

Hemp-derived does not automatically mean Saudi-approved.

Mistake 4: Ordering online

Online ordering does not bypass Saudi drug and customs laws.

Mistake 5: Carrying someone else’s package

You should know what you are carrying across a border or into your residence.

Mistake 6: Assuming deportation is the only consequence

A criminal case can involve investigation, prosecution, imprisonment, fines and potential immigration consequences.

Foreigners and cannabis: quick reference

Question	General guidance
Can foreigners smoke marijuana?	No general recreational authorization
Can expats buy weed?	No general legal recreational market
Can tourists bring marijuana?	Do not bring it
Can expats order cannabis online?	Do not order it
Can foreigners bring THC gummies?	Do not bring them
Can foreigners bring THC vape products?	Do not bring them
Can foreigners bring cannabis seeds?	Do not bring them
Can foreigners grow cannabis?	Do not assume any authorization
Can foreigners bring CBD?	Verify current Saudi rules; do not assume permitted
Can foreigners bring medical cannabis?	Do not assume a foreign prescription authorizes it
Can foreigners bring ordinary prescription medicines?	Check the medicine and applicable requirements
Can foreigners be arrested?	Yes, if suspected of an offense
Can foreigners face deportation?	Immigration consequences may arise
Can foreigners face imprisonment?	Serious drug offenses can carry imprisonment

Frequently Asked Questions

Is cannabis legal for expats in Saudi Arabia?

No general recreational cannabis authorization exists. Cannabis is controlled under Saudi regulations.

Can tourists smoke weed in Saudi Arabia?

Tourists should not use recreational cannabis in Saudi Arabia.

Can foreigners bring CBD to Saudi Arabia?

The U.S. State Department currently advises that CBD products and derivatives are illegal in Saudi Arabia.

Can expats buy cannabis?

There is no general legal recreational cannabis market.

Can I order marijuana online?

No. Saudi drug laws can apply to marijuana ordered through the mail.

Can I bring cannabis from a country where it is legal?

No assumption of foreign legality should be made. Saudi law applies when entering the Kingdom.

Can I bring medical cannabis?

Do not assume that a foreign prescription makes medical cannabis legal to import. The current U.S. travel advisory specifically warns that Saudi Arabia does not allow marijuana or CBD products even when prescribed by a medical provider.

Can I bring prescription medicine?

Some medicines can be brought for personal use, while controlled medicines can require additional authorization. Check the exact medication before travel.

Can I grow cannabis in Saudi Arabia?

Foreigners should not cultivate cannabis. Cannabis plants are included in Saudi Arabia’s prohibited-plant schedule.

Can I bring cannabis seeds?

Do not bring cannabis seeds into Saudi Arabia. They are specifically addressed in the country’s prohibited-plant schedule.

Can I be deported for a drug offense?

Deportation can be an immigration consequence following a criminal case, depending on the circumstances.

Final Takeaway for Expats

Foreign residents and tourists should approach cannabis very differently in Saudi Arabia than they might in countries where recreational or medical cannabis is legal.

Saudi Arabia’s current controlled-substance schedules regulate cannabis, cannabis resin, extracts and tinctures, and prohibit numerous activities involving controlled cannabis substances.

The current U.S. travel advisory also warns that marijuana, cannabis and CBD products are illegal and that drug offenses can carry severe penalties.

For foreigners, the practical approach is:

• Do not possess recreational cannabis.
• Do not buy or sell marijuana.
• Do not order cannabis online.
• Do not bring THC products into Saudi Arabia.
• Do not assume CBD or hemp products are permitted.
• Do not bring cannabis seeds or plants.
• Check controlled prescription medicines before traveling.
• Obtain professional legal advice if you face an investigation.

The key point is that Saudi law applies to foreigners as well as Saudi citizens.

If you are an expat with a prescription or product that contains cannabis, CBD, THC or another controlled substance, determine its status before bringing it into the Kingdom rather than relying on the law of your home country.