Is Marijuana Legal in Saudi Arabia?

In Saudi Arabia, as in many countries in the Middle East, the use, possession, sale, and cultivation of cannabis is strictly illegal.

Even possessing small amounts of cannabis can result in severe penalties from Saudi Authorities, including lengthy jail times, hefty fines, and even the death penalty.

Islam prohibits the use of illicit drugs, so drug policy reform seems unlikely to be discussed any time soon.

Medical Marijuana Laws in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia’s laws prohibit the use of most recreational drugs, including cannabis, despite the plant’s medical potential.

This is because drug use is mostly forbidden in Islam, and while the religion does allow for the use of some narcotic drugs, such as opioids prescribed for pain management, it seems unlikely the same exceptions would be granted to medical marijuana.

The government imposes strict punishments on those who violate their drug laws.

Punishments scale whether an offender possesses, sells, or traffics cannabis, with drug trafficking resulting in a mandatory death penalty.

If the person committing the drug offenses is a foreigner, they are typically deported.

Despite these strict restrictions, hashish is the most commonly used drug in Saudi Arabia, which has only intensified legislative action to outlaw the plant.

Because of these strict drug restrictions, there is no medical marijuana program in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Whether one’s cannabis use is for recreational or medical purposes, the punishment for simple possession is two years in prison and the potential for 50 lashes.

What to Know About About Medical Cannabis in Saudi Arabia

You cannot access medical or recreational cannabis in Saudi Arabia. Similarly, you cannot bring it into the country.

If you’re planning a visit to the area, it is recommended that you leave your cannabis (including CBD) at home, even if you have a medical marijuana card.

All Cannabis Is Illegal

Cannabis, any parts of the cannabis plant, and derivatives thereof are considered narcotic drugs in Saudi Arabia, and all possession, sale, production, or use is illegal. This includes both medical marijuana and cannabidiol (CBD).

Punishments for Cannabis Are Severe

The penalty for possession of cannabis for personal use could earn imprisonment for up to six months, potentially with whippings for first offenses.

Higher drug crimes such as dealing could yield up to 10 years of prison time plus whipping. Repeat offenders or drug traffickers can result in sentences up to the death penalty by beheading.

This punishment is still applied today, as reported by a 2019 Forbes article stating that of 150 executions in a year, 40% of these deaths are drug-related.

Can You Grow Cannabis In Saudi Arabia?

Cultivation of cannabis is illegal in Saudi Arabia, and violators risk severe punishments ranging from prison time and whipping to the death penalty.

The Bottom Line

Saudi Arabia is highly strict on drug use, so it’s best to avoid cannabis in any shape or form within its borders.

Due to Islam’s anti-drug/anti-intoxication beliefs, legislative reform is unlikely to occur soon, and Saudi Arabia will continue its tough stance against weed crimes.