Saudi Arabia seizes millions of narcotic pills in 2025

The Saudi Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority achieved remarkable security results in 2025, thwarting numerous smuggling attempts across land, air and sea customs ports. (SPA/File Photo)
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Updated 01 January 2026
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Saudi Arabia seizes millions of narcotic pills in 2025

RIYADH: The Saudi Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority achieved remarkable security results in 2025, thwarting numerous smuggling attempts across land, air and sea customs ports.

These efforts form part of its crucial role in protecting society and strengthening the Kingdom’s security, carried out in close coordination with relevant security agencies.

During the year, the authority reported the seizure of 24 million narcotic and prohibited pills and 1,417 kg of other prohibited substances.

The implementation of advanced control procedures, the adoption of modern security technologies and the enhanced efficiency of customs personnel at all ports of entry drove the success.

The authority highlighted that continuous coordination and integrated operations with the General Directorate of Narcotics Control led to the arrest of individuals attempting to receive the seized substances within the Kingdom, demonstrating the effectiveness of collaborative security efforts in combating drug smuggling.


Citrus festival highlights AlUla’s heritage, economy

Updated 10 January 2026
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Citrus festival highlights AlUla’s heritage, economy

  • The rise in visitor numbers reflects the festival’s prominence as a major agricultural and community event. It runs until Jan. 16

ALULA: The AlUla Citrus Festival has seen a remarkable turnout of residents and visitors as it has coincided with the mid-year school break, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The festival is being held at the farmers’ market in the cultural oasis, amid an environment that blends stunning natural beauty with the governorate's rich agricultural heritage.

The rise in visitor numbers reflects the festival’s prominence as a major agricultural and community event. It runs until Jan. 16.

It allows visitors to explore local products and purchase citrus fruits directly from farmers, highlighting the deep connection between the people, their land, and agricultural legacy.

The festival showcases a diverse selection of AlUla’s finest citrus fruits, alongside platforms for local producers, the SPA added.

The event also features interactive family-friendly activities and live cooking demonstrations.

It contributes to revitalizing agricultural economic activity and reinforces agricultural seasons as a pillar of sustainable development in the governorate.

The AlUla Citrus Festival is a key social and economic event and gives local farmers a vital platform to showcase and sell their produce, supporting the agricultural economy of a governorate home to nearly 5,000 productive farms.