Saudi Arabia Dress Code for Males and Females - Travel Basics

In 2017, the Saudi Arabia tourism sector accounted for 9.4% of the kingdom’s GDP. However, with the introduction of the electronic tourist visa in 2019, the country is all set to grow the contribution of this sector, welcoming foreign tourists from all across the world. In an attempt to push tourism, the Saudi Arabian dress code for foreigners, particularly for women, has been relaxed to some extent.

Here’s what you need to know about how to dress in public in the KSA.

The following dress requirements were published by the Saudi government and should be followed by all women tourists entering the kingdom:

• Although Saudi women are expected to wear the traditional black, long gown called the abaya while in public, foreigners are exempted from this rule. The hijab and niqab are optional for both Saudi and tourist women.
• Women must dress modestly at all times, covering their knees and shoulders.
• Although the abayais optional, you will need to wear it while entering mosques, in respect of the Muslim culture.
• In a few places, you might have to wear a headscarf, particularly in Riyadh.
• Sleeveless shirts, short dresses, loose tops, short bottoms, crop tops and miniskirts are strictly not allowed.
• Night clothes, under garments or anything that is inappropriate to be worn in public must be avoided.
• Bikinis, which are common among westerners, are taboo in Saudi Arabia, even on the beaches.
• You can wear the shoes of your choice – trainers, sandals, heels or open toed footwear. There are no restrictions on this. However, you will have to remove your footwear when entering religious institutions.
• Make sure the fabric of your clothes is not see through and not super tight.
• In case you are wearing jewellery that is represents any other religion than Islam, you need to tuck it into your clothes. Make sure it isn’t visible.
• Lastly, modest make up is preferable to bright colours on the face.

The following dress requirements are to be followed by male tourists entering the kingdom.

• Foreign men are not required to wear the thobe or thwab, the traditional Arabic dress.
• Men are required to wear clothes covering their shoulders and legs at all times.
• Make sure to avoid skinny jeans, sleeveless shirts and shorts in public.
• If you are at a workplace, a shirt, tie and a dark business suit are appropriate.
• Apart from a wristwatch or a wedding ring, any other jewellery, including bracelets, necklaces, etc., particularly in gold, is considered inappropriate.
• You must not be shirtless under any circumstances.

Both men and women should be careful not to wear a top or shirt with indecent or loud graphics and quotes on it. However, you can wear whatever you like within western compounds or areas where expats reside. Bikinis are still not allowed, and you need to stick to one-piece swimsuits. Whatever you wear, make sure it is modest and respectful of the tenets of Islam.