SFDA Demonstrates High Regulatory Readiness, Operational Efficiency in Pre-Hajj Campaign Results
The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has revealed the results of its pre-Hajj campaign for the 1447 AH Hajj season, which targeted establishments under its supervision across Makkah and Madinah regions. The campaign demonstrated advanced levels of regulatory readiness and operational efficiency, reflecting high compliance among facilities and significantly enhancing the safety of food, drugs, and medical products provided to pilgrims.
SFDA stated that the campaign was executed in two phases, starting in the month of Shaban, as part of a comprehensive, proactive regulatory strategy. The plan successfully achieved 200% regulatory coverage for food establishments—ensuring at least two inspection visits to each facility—while achieving 100% regulatory coverage for pharmaceutical and medical device establishments.The Authority conducted more than 8,085 inspection visits to food factories, warehouses, distribution centers, and pharmaceutical and medical device facilities. These inspections resulted in the seizure of over 878 tons of non-compliant food products and 151,439 packages of non-compliant pharmaceuticals and medical items.
Additionally, the safety of over 18,506 products was verified, reinforcing a proactive approach to risk prevention before goods reach consumers.During the campaign, inspection teams identified 3,389 violations, which were immediately addressed according to established legal procedures. Enforcement actions included the temporary closure of 46 establishments and the suspension of 13 non-compliant production lines. Total fines levied amounted to SAR3,909,400, underscoring the rigor of the inspection process and the effectiveness of enforcement mechanisms in safeguarding public health.
As part of its ongoing compliance efforts, the SFDA conducted 810 follow-up visits to verify that violations were rectified, alongside collecting 3,752 product samples for strict laboratory testing and analysis. This rigorous oversight enhances the reliability and safety of all products circulating during the Hajj season. These outcomes are an integral part of unified national efforts to achieve the objectives of the Health Sector Transformation Program—a key pillar of Saudi Vision 2030. They also serve as an extension of the Pilgrim Experience Program, which aims to elevate the quality of services and ensure the highest standards of safety for pilgrims.
The SFDA will maintain its intensive oversight operations throughout the Hajj season to continuously raise compliance levels, safeguard food and drug safety, and support the provision of reliable health services. This reflects the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s global leadership in crowd management and pilgrim care according to the highest international standards.
