Wondering if cannabis is legal in Saudi Arabia? This question is essential for anyone considering traveling or living in this country with strict laws. Understanding local regulations can help you avoid sticky situations. In this article, we will take a look at how Saudi law regulates cannabis and its derivatives.
Cannabis Legislation in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia has some of the strictest drug laws in the world. Cannabis , whether its possession, consumption, production or trafficking, is strictly prohibited. Existing laws, including the Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances Control Law of 2005, provide severe penalties for any drug-related offence.
Penalties vary depending on the seriousness of the offence. For example, possession of small amounts of cannabis can result in imprisonment of between 6 months and 2 years, with fines of up to 100,000 Saudi riyals (around €24,000). For more serious offences, such as drug trafficking or smuggling, penalties can be much harsher, including the death penalty, which is still applied in some cases.
According to official statistics for 2024, the Saudi government made more than 4,500 drug-related arrests, a significant proportion of which involved cannabis. These figures show a 15% increase over the previous year, reflecting an intensification of the authorities’ efforts to combat drug trafficking.
CBD and Derived Products in Saudi Arabia
CBD , or cannabidiol, is a non-psychoactive compound in cannabis that is legal in many countries for its purported medical benefits. However, in Saudi Arabia, it is treated the same as THC , the psychoactive compound in cannabis. The law makes no distinction between the different cannabinoids , meaning that all cannabis-derived products are illegal.
Travelers should be especially vigilant. Importing or possessing CBD, even in small quantities, can result in severe penalties. In 2023, a European tourist was arrested at King Khalid International Airport for carrying CBD oil in his luggage. He was sentenced to one year in prison and fined 50,000 Saudi riyals (about €12,000).
Saudi authorities have tightened border controls, using advanced detection technologies. In 2025, more than 1.5 tons of CBD products were seized, a 25% increase from the previous year. These measures demonstrate the country's zero tolerance for cannabis- derived products.
Consequences for Travelers and Residents
For expats and visitors, ignorance of the law is no excuse. Embassies and consulates strongly recommend that their nationals research local laws before traveling. Drug-related offenses in Saudi Arabia are dealt with with no leniency, regardless of the offender's nationality.
In 2024, a group of foreign workers were arrested for cannabis use at a private party. They were sentenced to prison terms ranging from 6 months to 1 year, followed by permanent expulsion from the territory. These cases are not isolated and demonstrate the need for increased vigilance.
Checks are not limited to entry points into the country. The authorities regularly conduct operations in residential areas and public places. In 2025, more than 10,000 random checks were carried out, an average of 27 per day. These figures illustrate the government's commitment to eradicating drug use.
Prevention and Awareness Campaigns
Recognizing that repression alone is not enough, the Saudi government is also investing in prevention. The Ministry of Health has launched several campaigns to raise awareness among young people about the dangers of drugs. Educational programs have been implemented in more than 5,000 schools, reaching nearly 2 million students.
Conferences, workshops and seminars are held regularly. In 2025, more than 500 events were held across the country, with the participation of health and public safety specialists. The goal is to reduce demand by providing information on the health and legal risks associated with cannabis and other illicit substances.
Legal Alternatives and Medical Care
For people with chronic pain or other conditions that require specific treatments, it is important to consult a local doctor. Saudi healthcare professionals have solutions that are approved by health authorities. Opioid-based medications, for example, are prescribed under strict medical supervision.
It is important to note that bringing your own medications from abroad can be risky. Some medications that are legal in other countries are considered illegal in Saudi Arabia. Before you travel, check the list of controlled substances published by the Saudi Ministry of Health. In 2025, there were over 300 reported incidents of travelers carrying unauthorized medications.
Cultural and Religious Implications
The severity of Saudi laws is also explained by cultural and religious considerations. Islam, the state religion, prohibits the consumption of intoxicating substances, including cannabis and alcohol. This prohibition is enshrined in Sharia law, which greatly influences the country's legal system.
Authorities consider drug use to be a threat to public health, safety and the moral values of society. That is why they implement strict policies to discourage any form of consumption. Prevention campaigns often emphasize religious and ethical aspects, highlighting the spiritual consequences of such practices.
The Role of Media and Social Networks
The media plays an important role in the fight against drugs. TV shows, press articles and social media posts are used to spread prevention messages. In 2024, more than 1,000 media contents were produced for this purpose, reaching an estimated audience of 20 million people.
Influencers and public figures are also mobilized to promote a healthy and drug-free lifestyle. Online campaigns with specific hashtags have generated millions of interactions, including #SaynotoDrugs or #HealthySaudi. These initiatives aim to create collective awareness about the dangers of cannabis .
Recent Statistics and Trends
Despite the efforts, statistics show a slight increase in drug use among young adults. A study conducted in 2025 indicates that 2% of individuals aged 18 to 25 have experimented with cannabis . Although this figure is low compared to other countries, it raises concern among authorities.
Experts attribute this trend to foreign influence and easy access via the internet. To counter this, the government is considering strengthening cybercrime laws, particularly targeting online trafficking of illicit substances. In parallel, psychological support programmes are being offered to vulnerable people.
Conclusion
So, is cannabis legal in Saudi Arabia? The answer is unequivocal: no. Saudi Arabian laws are among the strictest in the world when it comes to drugs, including cannabis and its derivatives like CBD . Whether you are a resident or a traveler, it is imperative to abide by these laws to avoid harsh penalties, including death.
In a country where the law is closely linked to cultural and religious values, caution is advised. By informing yourself and respecting local regulations, you will not only contribute to your own safety, but also to respecting the customs and laws of Saudi Arabia. Remember that the consequences of an offence can be much more serious than in your home country.
