Dress codes

Visitors from countries with more relaxed fashions may find Saudi Arabia's dress codes intimidating, but tourists should remember that dressing a little differently for a few days is part of the adventure in Saudi Arabia! However, the laws governing female fashion have recently been changed. Women (including foreign women) in the Kingdom now have more freedom. Women are still required to "dress respectfully," which means they must cover their shoulders, arms, and legs, but they can now do so in a more fashionable way.

Foreign women visiting the Kingdom should also follow these dress codes, and while it may feel strange at first, you'll appreciate not standing out as an uninformed tourist when sightseeing in Saudi Arabia. Foreign women should dress comfortably and cover their shoulders and knees. Tight jeans and t-shirts that expose a woman's curves, as well as shorts or short skirts above the knees, are not acceptable. Women should remember that there are benefits to dressing like a local in Saudi Arabia: long sleeves provide sun protection, and flowing, lightweight skirts are ideal for catching cool desert breezes.

For men, fashions are a little more relaxed. Most Saudi men wear a long, white robe, called a thobe (sometimes spelled thawb), and a ghutrah (head scarf), but male foreigners are not required to go out in traditional dress. Instead, men should wear loose-fitting, modest clothing. Wearing shorts, however, should be avoided. This is unquestionably one of the most important things you should know before traveling to Saudi Arabia.