Saudi Arabia is a deeply religious, traditional, and conservative country. Foreigners coming to Saudi Arabia are expected to respect the country’s culture and follow various regulations and rules established by the Kingdom. Being the birthplace of Islam, certain restrictions are to be followed in public and private spaces in accordance with Sharia law. What is not allowed in Saudi Arabia includes activities such as displaying public affection or drinking, and prohibits certain items and clothing.
Radical behavior, illegal drugs, pornography, and inappropriate clothing
In Saudi Arabia, it is illegal to engage in any behavior deemed disruptive or radical, including activities such as public protest, activism, or even public displays of affection – this includes holding hands and exchanging kisses. Furthermore, anything related to spiritual practices of non-Muslim faiths, such as holy books, images, artifacts, or symbols are strictly prohibited. Similarly, any kind of illegal drugs, such as marijuana, cocaine, heroin, and LSD are strictly prohibited and could potentially result in harsh penalties. If a person is found to have these substances in their possession, they could be subject to imprisonment and heavy fines. Similarly, the exchange of any form of pornography is strictly forbidden.
In the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, clothing is to be worn that adheres to Islamic values, as per recommendations from the Saudi government and the Sharia law. The dress code is largely based on modesty, and women are expected to wear a burqa or abaya, while men are required to wear a thawb. It is forbidden to expose any body parts that are deemed to be inappropriate, which could be considered offensive.
Alcohol, gambling, and gambling tools
In Saudi Arabia, the sale, purchase, consumption, and possession of alcohol are strictly prohibited, and any activities related to it are illegal. While there is no legal drinking age, and no penalty for violation of the law in public, it is still a serious offense if caught consuming or possessing alcohol. Alcoholic beverages can only be consumed in country’s licensed nightclubs or bars, such as the ones situated at international hotels. Similarly, gambling of any kind, such as card games or building a casino, is strictly forbidden in Saudi Arabia. The sale or possession of any kind of gaming tools is illegal and can lead to heavy punishments.
Mixed-gender workplaces and events
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia enforces numerous restrictions related to gender. According to the strict Saudi Arabian Gender Segregation Law, it is illegal for unmarried unrelated men and women to be together in any public or private spaces at the same time. As such, all public and private facilities need to be separated based on gender, and women should be accompanied by a guardian in all public places. Mixed-gender events, such as concerts, are not allowed in the Kingdom, as they could potentially be considered disruptive and inappropriate. Furthermore, businesses are strictly barred from hiring unmarried ladies and Saudi nationals are also banned from working in mixed-gender workplaces abroad.
Social media usage
Social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and other photo-sharing websites, such as Instagram, are commonly used in Saudi Arabia for communication and entertainment. However, in order to protect the country’s Sharia values, the Saudi Arabia Communications and Information Technology Commission strictly bans any type of religious symbols, images, and offensive language on these platforms. As such, the government actively monitors and blocks any posts that go against the country’s rules and regulations.
Media usage and publications
Saudi Arabia strictly prohibits the publication of any form of media which is deemed offensive, morally inappropriate or politically subversive. This includes books, music, films, or any other form of printed material. All books, magazines and other publications are required to be reviewed by the Ministry of Culture and Information before publishing. Similarly, all music and film releases must adhere to the country’s strict laws and regulations before it can be officially released.
Foreign language usage
The use of foreign languages is prohibited in official applications, websites, and other public domains in Saudi Arabia. All official information must be in Arabic, to protect the country’s language and culture. However, foreign languages can be used in business and education outlets, as long as it is approved by the Ministry of Education.
Social activities
Both men and women are expected to follow the proper Islamic etiquette in Saudi Arabia. Any events that involve dancing, activities that appear to be sexually suggestive, and any other behavior deemed to be inappropriate, are strictly prohibited. Similarly, any activities such as swimming, beach activities, and gym training are only allowed when the proper dress code is followed accordingly. For women, wearing sports attire is only allowed in private spaces and not in public areas. Furthermore, all recreational activities like parks or amusement parks must adhere to religious values and rules regarding gender segregation.
