As predicted, The Saints cut the 24-year-old ahead of Thursday afternoon's list lodgement deadline but could still place him on their rookie list if he escaped a doping ban.
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Saad failed post-match drug test in July and admitted to unintentionally consuming WADA-banned stimulant Methylsynephrine.
The substance was contained in supplements company Viking Protein's energy drink called Before Battle.
"Ahmed and the club are awaiting on a conclusion to his hearing before the tribunal and we will work closely with him during and after that process," list manager Ameet Bains said.
Saad has few grounds to avoid the customary two-year ban because he had attended AFL anti-drug seminars, admits taking the substance and took the substance on a match day.
The outcome of the hearing will be announced by the end of the year.
The Saints will use the vacant spot on their senior list to upgrade youngster Tom Curren.