In a landmark move to safeguard the health of millions, the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) have forged a strategic partnership to launch a comprehensive global campaign titled “Safe Medicines, Safe Hajj Journey.” This initiative represents a unified effort across 57 nations to prioritize medication safety and public health during the world’s largest annual gathering.

The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has deployed a sophisticated system of advanced technologies and modern digital tools to support its field teams and optimize oversight efficiency for facilities under its supervision during the Hajj season. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to enhance operational readiness and ensure the highest safety standards for the pilgrims.

The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has announced the full readiness of its laboratories for the 1447 AH Hajj season. The SFDA has implemented intensive operational plans to safeguard pilgrims and enhance emergency response efficiencies related to food and drug safety. These measures include 24/7 laboratory operations and increased capacity to manage the high seasonal workload, all while maintaining the highest international standards.

As the Hajj season approaches and delegations begin arriving at the holy sites via land, air, and sea, the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has intensified l its oversight as part of a comprehensive operational plan to ensure the safety and availability of medical supplies for pilgrims.

H.E. Dr. Hisham S. Aljadhey, CEO of the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA), conducted a field inspection tour of several SFDA facilities and operational sites in the Makkah and Eastern Regions as part of the intensive preparations for this year’s Hajj season. The tour aimed to enhance the efficiency of regulatory procedures and ensure the safety of incoming products, contributing to safeguarding the health and safety of pilgrims.

H.E. Dr. Hisham S. Aljadhey, CEO of the Saudi Food and Drug Athourity (SFDA) represented the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia at the 10th meeting of the the Food Safety Committee of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), held virtually on Wednesday the 6th of May 2026. The meeting was chaired by the Bahraini Kingdom Minister of Health Dr. Jalila bint Al-Sayed Jawad Hassan, current chair of the Ministerial Committee for Food Safety, with the participation of Their Excellencies officials responsible for food safety in the GCC countries.

The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has finalized its comprehensive, integrated operational plan for the Hajj season 1447 AH (2026). This readiness aligns with the directives of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s wise leadership to prioritize the health and well-being of pilgrims, leveraging all available resources to ensure a safe and seamless Hajj journey. These efforts underscore the Kingdom’s longstanding commitment to the service and care of the Two Holy Mosques and their visitors.

Saudia Cargo, the leading national air cargo carrier in the Kingdom, today announced the launch of a strategic initiative with the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA). This initiative aims to enhance the supply chains for pharmaceutical shipments and medical supplies, aligning with the Kingdom's national objectives to ensure the continuous flow of essential shipments. The initiative includes offering significant facilities and a price reduction of up to 50% on shipping costs.

As part of a program organized by the New Zealand Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), the CEO of the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA), H.E. Dr. Hisham S. Aljadhey, conducted a field visit to several meat production and inspection facilities in New Zealand.

During the visit, Dr. Aljadhey was briefed on Halal slaughter procedures, modern production technologies, and methods for verifying compliance with international standards.

The CEO of the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA), H.E. Dr. Hisham S. Aljadhey, headed the Authority’s delegation at the 7th Annual Meeting of the International Heads of Food Agencies Forum (IHFAF), held in Auckland, New Zealand. The meeting brought together heads of global food regulatory authorities and senior representatives from the Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC).