Considering the challenging desert climate and conservative dressing etiquettes, one must be aware of what to wear in Saudi Arabia as tourists. The social rules are different for men and women, and everyone traveling to Saudi must be aware of these. Following the right dressing style ensures that you do not offend the religious and social sentiments and sensibilities of the region. Traditionally, women wear an Abaya – a long, loose gown with a black headscarf or niqab in public places. But, with a progressing world and new policies by the Crown Prince, women are getting more liberty from clothes to other social restrictions. On the other hand, men have a less restrictive dress code. However, like women, men must follow specific dress code in public.
What to wear in Saudi Arabia: How to decide?
The clothing in Saudi Arabia is greatly influenced by the climate and traditions. The kingdom of Saudi Arabia offers a diverse range of dresses preserving the old traditions and blending them into modern wearables. Let us discuss the types of clothing in detail.
How is the climate of Saudi Arabia?
The desert climate of Saudi Arabia is characterized by dry, hot summers and mild winters. Rainfall is rare, and extreme temperature swings between day and night are common. Therefore, the clothing of Saudi Arabia depends upon the following seasons.
Spring (March to June): The climate remains pleasant during the day in spring. While nighttime temperatures in the north can drop below 15°C, it is the rainy season in the south (southwest). Therefore, the people have relaxed clothing styles with light cotton t-shirts and trousers.
Summer (June to September): During this period, the climate remains hot, with temperatures regularly reaching 45°C. The hilly southwest, on the other hand, is significantly more relaxed. Like springs, people tend to wear a lightweight abaya and loose dresses.
Autumn (October-November): In autumn, the climate is still cool, with daytime temperatures around 30°C, and comfortable evenings, with temperatures dropping to approximately 15°C in most cities. Clothes made from natural fibers are preferable clothing in autumn.
Winter (December-March): The best season to visit Saudi Arabia is in the winter season when the weather is moderate, offering plenty of sunny days and cold evenings. The temperature at night can drop dramatically; hence, keeping warm clothes and jackets handy is always a good idea.
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What are the local dress code in Saudi Arabia?
Both men and women must dress appropriately as per the sensibilities of Saudi Arabia. While thinking about what do women wear in Saudi Arabia, one must keep local views in mind. Women must dress modestly, which means their shoulders and knees must be covered. Underpants, night garments, or clothes that offend public morality and conservative views are among the unacceptable attires to wear in public.
What do local people wear in Saudi Arabia?
Saudi Arabians’ clothing is not only a result of religious views but also by the realities of living in a hot and sandy environment. The long robes and headscarves were worn to shield one’s head and face from the harsh desert heat and sandstorms. Hence, headscarves and face coverings were worn to protect one’s body when walking or riding outdoors. Today, people continue the traditions along with infusing modern garments as per local views.
What women wear in Saudi Arabia?
Until recently, all Saudi women, Muslim or not, had to wear an abaya (a loose, all-covering black robe) and a headscarf. Nonetheless, due to the current government’s emphasis on cultural and social reforms, the way Saudi Arabian women dress is swiftly changing. As a result, women no longer need to don an abaya or headscarf as long as they wear something modest that covers most of their bodies. However, for most local women, the abaya and headscarves symbolize proud Arabians and their religion, rather than a mandatory dress constraint. Hence, the vast majority of Saudi women still wear the abaya.
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What men wear in Saudi Arabia?
In Saudi Arabia, males wear a full-length loose-fitting garment with long sleeves known as thobe. Local Saudi men avoid wearing black thobes since black is the color of women’s abayas. Ghutra, a white and red checkered headdress with a double black cord known as an agal, is worn on the head. Men wear a taqiyah beneath the ghutra, a little white cap that prevents the ghutra from slipping away. On the other hand, some Saudi men have begun to adopt western clothing trends and reserve their traditional Saudi attire for cultural and religious occasions.
What should tourists wear in Saudi Arabia?
The Saudi Arabian dress code for outsiders, particularly ladies, has been eased to promote tourism. However, despite recent modifications in the law, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia remains an exceptionally conservative country with a strict dress code. If one intends to travel or relocate with their family in the country, it is critical that they know how to dress appropriately.
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What do female tourists wear in Saudi Arabia?
New public decency standards were introduced in 2019, allowing visitors to wear some western-style attire. Female travelers are no longer required to wear an abaya or a headscarf. In public places, wearing short skirts, tight trousers, and revealing tops will attract negative gazes and disapprovals. Instead, female tourists should choose a loose outfit or dress covering the shoulders, chest, and legs. Another critical consideration while dressing for Saudi Arabia is to wear only opaque fabrics. People should not be able to see the underpants through clothes.
One should stay away from bright hues like red, yellow, and green, which can draw unwelcome attention. Instead, one can choose light and muted shades. Female tourists can wear jeans, but they should make sure the top half of the outfit is long enough to cover their backside. They can wear a bikini if they stay in a villa with their private pool but cover up when not in the water.
What do male tourists wear in Saudi Arabia?
Male tourists are not required to wear the customary Arabic thobe. However, one must always wear clothing that covers their shoulders and legs. In public, male tourists should avoid wearing narrow jeans, sleeveless shirts, or shorts. Men’s pants and t-shirts are casual apparels and are appropriate to wear daily in any non-formal setting. The t-shirt worn must not be provocative or affect public sentiment in the country (the graphic and message must be appropriate for the general public). Tourists can’t be shirtless in Saudi Arabia under any circumstances.
Saudi Arabia is an Islamic state with a solid commitment to its faith and traditions. One should keep these stringent rules in mind while visiting Saudi Arabia. Men and women should cover as much skin as possible to prevent offending local sensitivities or confront the formidable religious police. It will also assist tourists with blending with the locals in the country. People should also wear proper and unrevealing clothes at beaches during Ramadan.
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What to wear in Saudi Arabia FAQs
What is an abaya?
Abaya is a loose-fitting robe for women worn around the body and covers everything except the face, hands, and feet.
How should children dress in Saudi Arabia?
There are not many guidelines for children regarding what they should and should not wear. Girls under puberty can wear whatever they wish, including dresses and shorts. However, girls should dress modestly after puberty.
Is it compulsory to wear an abaya inside a mosque or at a religious site?
Yes, it is compulsory to wear an abaya inside a mosque or at a religious site.
Is it permissible to wear jeans in Saudi Arabia?
People can wear jeans in Saudi Arabia; however, the top must be long enough to cover the bum.
Can foreign women wear bikinis on Saudi Arabian beaches?
Women from foreign countries can wear bikinis on the beach at several Red Sea private resorts, but they must cover up when not in the water.
Are there any restrictions on the colors of clothing in Saudi Arabia?
While the traditional attire for women is usually black, there are no specific restrictions on the colors of clothing in Saudi Arabia for either men or women. However, it is essential to consider cultural norms and modesty when choosing clothing.
Are there any specific dress codes for visiting religious sites in Saudi Arabia?
Yes, it is different for men and women.
For Men
Wear long trousers that cover the legs.
Wear shirts with sleeves that cover the shoulders and arms.
Avoid wearing shorts or sleeveless shirts.
For Women
Wear a full-length Abaya that covers the entire body, except for the hands and face. The Abaya is a loose-fitting, black cloak.
Cover the hair with a Hijab or a headscarf.
