What to Wear in Saudi Arabia: Complete Dress Code Guide
A practical guide to dress codes in Saudi Arabia for tourists. Learn what to wear for different occasions, from casual sightseeing to beach resorts.
Key Takeaways
- Men: long trousers and shirts covering shoulders are sufficient — shorts above the knee are frowned upon
- Women: loose clothing covering arms and knees. Abaya is NOT required for tourists but headscarves are needed in mosques
- Bring a light scarf for mosque visits and a warm layer for desert nights and mountain regions
- Swimwear is acceptable at hotel pools and private beaches — not at public beaches in conservative areas
- Pack breathable, light-colored fabrics — cotton and linen are ideal for 40+ degree summer heat