Is Hemp Legal in Saudi Arabia?

Industrial hemp is illegal in Saudi Arabia. There is no licensed cultivation program, no THC threshold distinguishing hemp from drug cannabis, and no commercial fiber, seed-food, or biomaterials industry.

The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture does not issue hemp permits, and the Saudi Food and Drug Authority does not register hemp-derived foods. The General Directorate of Narcotics Control treats all Cannabis sativa material as a controlled substance regardless of cannabinoid profile. Imports of hemp seed, fiber, hempcrete, or textiles are subject to customs holds and rejection, and finished food products such as hemp protein face the same treatment.

Saudi Vision 2030 has not signaled any opening for hemp agriculture, and academic research would require special royal authorization that has not been publicly granted.

This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Verify current law with qualified counsel before making compliance decisions.