Saudi Arabia customs rules & duty-free allowances
Saudi Arabia enforces a strict zero-tolerance policy on alcohol and pork, and non-Muslim travellers cannot bring religious materials or symbols. These rules apply to all arriving international travellers, regardless of nationality, in 2026.
Duty-free allowances
Prohibited — banned from import
- Alcohol and alcoholic beverages
- Pork and pork products
- Narcotics and psychotropic substances (including cannabis, even in small amounts)
- Religious materials (e.g., Bibles, crosses, religious books) for non-Muslims
- Firearms, ammunition, and explosives (without special permit)
- Pornography and obscene materials
Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration
- Medications containing controlled substances (require prior approval from Saudi Food and Drug Authority)
- Drones and unmanned aerial vehicles (require permit from the General Authority of Civil Aviation)
- Satellite phones and communication equipment (require approval from the Communications and Information Technology Commission)
- Pets (cats and dogs) require an import permit, microchip, rabies vaccination, and health certificate
- Cultural artifacts and antiques (require export permit from the Ministry of Culture)
Arriving: red vs green channel
On arrival, proceed to the customs hall. There is a red channel for goods to declare and a green channel for nothing to declare. No written customs declaration card is required unless you have items to declare or exceed the cash threshold.
Tax-free shopping & VAT refunds
Saudi Arabia does not offer a tourist VAT refund scheme.
Bringing medication
Personal medications are allowed for up to 3 months' supply with a valid prescription. Narcotics, psychotropics, and some common Western drugs (e.g., codeine, tramadol) are strictly prohibited. Carry a doctor's note in Arabic or English.
Food, plants & animal products
All food, plants, seeds, and animal products must be declared. Pork and pork products are banned. Fresh fruits, vegetables, and meat require a health certificate.
Rules worth knowing
Religious Items Ban
Non-Muslim travellers are prohibited from bringing religious items such as Bibles, crosses, or religious literature. These will be confiscated.
Strict Drug Penalties
Saudi Arabia has a zero-tolerance policy for drugs. Even trace amounts of cannabis or prescription narcotics can lead to imprisonment or deportation.
Pork Products Banned
Pork and any products containing pork (including gelatin) are strictly prohibited. All food items must be declared.
Drones Require Permit
Drones and UAVs are restricted. Travellers must obtain prior approval from the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) or risk confiscation and fines.