Drug test KSA

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Member since 04 July 2018

Mr.nonameMember04 July 2018 18:23:48

Hi Guys,

I am in a situation where I can use some information, the situation is as follows.

My employee has asked to travel to KSA next week to do 4 days of work and than travel back (Netherlands to KSA, and back). I would very much like to travel to KSA, as this would be my first time in KSA. But I see one problem, I am a regular marijuana user. I have read that they are not tender on the use and possession of drugs.

It goes without saying that I do not bring drugs or use them during my trip to KSA, but as we all know, marijuana is still visible in the urine and blood for a long period of time after use.
Is it in this case safe to travel to KSA?
Are there drug tests taken upon arrival/departure?

Thanks in advance!

flex14 Serial expat

Member since 08 July 2014

flex14Serial expat04 July 2018 19:41:14

442

None that I know off. Test like that are done only during the process of getting a residency permit. If you are not coming to do any health related works and just pure business like meeting up with clients and checking products etc. I do not think a 4 days trip here would involve any drug test. You should be ok.

However I did advice to at least try not to use or smoke it for 24 hours before your journey. A little smell might start a wild fire for you.

XTang Bahrain/UAE/Saudi Arabia Expert

Member since 22 April 2014

XTangBahrain/UAE/Saudi Arabia Expert04 July 2018 23:20:53

11829

They don't do drug tests on arrival or departure. It is a rare event.

Also, to correct the previous poster, there are NO drug tests done for residency permits either. They are only testing for infectious diseases.

The way it happens (and I know of someone who had it happen to them in UAE):

You arrive, look suspicious or attract customs attention
They pull you aside and search your luggage - find nothing
You still arouse suspicion or bad mouth them
They do a swab test of your belongings
It comes back positive for drugs
They are still unable to find the drugs in your belongings
They put you through a body scan and / or do a blood test
It comes back positive and that is it

So as you can see, there are many many steps before this happens. I wouldn't worry and just be careful not to get any residue on you or your luggage.

AdnKhn Active member

Member since 21 August 2016

AdnKhnActive member08 July 2018 06:04:02

You're safe to travel, mate. Enjoy your stay. No such tests happen while flying in or flying out of The Kingdom.

Have fun...... just don't expect to find 'stuff' here:)

Enjoy your stay.

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