Saudi SFDA News

National Nutrition Committee Holds Fourth Meeting in Riyadh

The National Nutrition Committee held its fourth meeting of the third session at SFDA headquarters in Riyadh, chaired by SFDA CEO H.E. Dr. Hisham S. Aljadhey. The Committee reviewed its strategic performance report covering initiatives, projects, and achievements through Q1 2026, as well as the Saudi Food Composition Tables book developed under the Nutrient Content of Foods initiative. The meeting included representatives from various government and private sector entities.

SFDA and Mawani Convene 220+ Industry Representatives on Supply Chain Resilience

The SFDA CEO hosted a virtual meeting with over 220 representatives from food, pharmaceutical, and medical device companies to discuss supply chain resilience. Key initiatives highlighted include the 'Fast Track' partnership with Mawani for expedited port clearance and the SFDA-Saudia Cargo collaboration for pharmaceutical logistics. The SFDA also detailed its 24/7 Response Center and expanded inspection capacity at ports of entry.

SFDA, Saudi Innovation Club Sign Digital Transformation MoU

The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Saudi Innovation Club to advance digital transformation. The agreement focuses on e-service development, user experience optimization, and knowledge exchange to enhance digital capabilities across both organizations. Key cooperation areas include joint programs to foster innovation culture and collaboration on sectors of mutual interest.

Saudi launches food composition database, empowering nutrition awareness

The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA), through its National Nutrition Committee, launched the Saudi Food Composition Database in collaboration with the Health Sector Transformation Program. The database provides comprehensive nutritional profiles for traditional Saudi foods and local dishes, including calories, macronutrients, vitamins, and minerals. This initiative aligns with Saudi Vision 2030's goals for digital transformation of health and food sectors.

SFDA CEO Congratulates Saudi Leadership on Eid al-Fitr

The CEO of the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) extended Eid al-Fitr greetings to the Saudi leadership and people. The announcement also highlighted the SFDA's role in ensuring the safety of food, medicine, and medical devices during the Umrah season.

SFDA Grants Breakthrough Designation to Bemlayo for Obesity/Overweight

The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has granted Eli Lilly's drug Bemlayo (Orforglipron) Breakthrough designation. This designation expedites the review process for innovative treatments for serious diseases but does not constitute marketing authorization.

SFDA Grants Orphan Drug Designation to Agamree for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy

The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has granted Santhera Pharmaceuticals orphan drug designation for Agamree (vamorolone) for the treatment of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). This designation allows for a dedicated regulatory pathway for serious or rare diseases but does not constitute formal product registration.

SFDA CEO Discusses AI's Role in Drug Development and Regulatory Efficiency

The CEO of the Saudi SFDA highlighted the significant contributions of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to accelerating drug development, reducing costs, and enhancing regulatory efficiency for medicines, medical devices, and food products. The SFDA has launched an AI laboratory and developed a digital twin to integrate emerging innovations and streamline approval processes.

SFDA grants orphan drug designation to Sephience for HPA/PKU

SFDA grants orphan drug designation to Sephience for HPA/PKU