What is illegal in Saudi Arabia for tourists?
Asked by: Myrtis D'Amore | Last update: March 17, 2026Score: 4.4/5 (31 votes)
In Saudi Arabia, it's illegal for tourists to bring in or consume alcohol, drugs, pork, and pornography; engage in public displays of affection, criticize the government/Islam, or photograph people/sensitive sites without permission; and same-sex relations are criminalized, with strict modesty laws and restrictions on expressing religious symbols (other than Islam) or criticism of the state or its leadership. Violations, especially concerning drugs, alcohol, and criticism, carry severe penalties, including imprisonment or death, while public decency fines can also be issued.
What is not allowed in Saudi Arabia?
If you plan on visiting the country of Saudi Arabia, you should check out what items are prohibited to import into Saudi Arabia. Drugs, liquor, guns, and even prescription medication without a doctor's note are not allowed on the plane. If any of these items are found, they will be confiscated by the airport.
How strict is Saudi Arabia for tourists?
Laws and cultural differences. Saudi Arabia is a Muslim country and Islamic law is strictly enforced. Respect local traditions, customs, laws and religion so you do not cause offence. There may be serious penalties for doing something that might not be illegal in the UK.
What is the most common crime in Saudi Arabia?
Crime in Saudi Arabia is low compared to industrialized nations. Criminal activity does not typically target foreigners and is mostly drug-related. Petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching does occur, but is extremely uncommon.
Can I stay with my girlfriend in a hotel in Saudi Arabia?
Yes, unmarried foreign couples can now stay together in hotels in Saudi Arabia, as the country relaxed these rules in 2019 as part of its tourism push, but you only need to show ID, not proof of marriage, and must respect local customs like dressing modestly. While rules have eased for tourists, Saudi nationals still need to show family ID for hotel stays, and all visitors should be mindful of local laws, such as the ban on alcohol.
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Can I kiss my wife in public in Saudi?
Public displays of affection (PDA) are considered inappropriate and can be seen as disrespectful to local customs. Acts such as hugging, kissing, or holding hands are typically reserved for private spaces, even among married couples.
Can female tourists wear shorts in Saudi Arabia?
As a tourist, you are not expected to wear the same attire as locals, or to cover up to the same extent, but it's highly recommended that you dress modestly. Specifically, loose-fitted clothing that covers the shoulders, cleavage and legs. “We do prioritize modesty,” says a Saudi woman from Khobar.
What to avoid in Saudi Arabia?
It is best to avoid taking photos of people without their permission, and to avoid bringing alcohol or drugs into the country. It is also important to be aware of the local laws and customs, and to avoid doing anything that could be considered offensive.
What is the biggest cause of death in Saudi Arabia?
The leading cause of death in Saudi Arabia is cardiovascular diseases (CVD), particularly ischemic heart disease, followed by stroke, with non-communicable diseases (NCDs) generally causing the majority of fatalities, alongside significant impacts from road injuries and diabetes. Lifestyle factors like obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes contribute heavily to this burden, making NCD prevention a key health focus.
Is Saudi Arabia safe for Americans?
We advise: Exercise a high degree of caution in Saudi Arabia overall due to the threat of terrorism and missile and drone attacks. Higher levels apply in some areas.
Can I wear jeans in Saudi Arabia?
Yes, you can wear jeans in Saudi Arabia, but they should be loose-fitting and paired with modest tops that cover shoulders, chest, and knees, as a sign of respect for local culture, with tighter styles drawing more attention, especially for women where looser fits are preferred. While the abaya isn't mandatory for tourists anymore, dressing conservatively in loose clothing that covers elbows and ankles is recommended for both men and women in public spaces, avoiding overly tight or revealing attire.
Is music illegal in Saudi Arabia?
Prohibitions of music are rare or non-existent in majority-Muslim states since the coming to power of Muhammad bin Salman in Saudi Arabia, but have often been enforced where Islamist insurgents have gained power, such as in Afghanistan under Taliban rule, and at least as of January 2013, "across much of the two-thirds ...
Can you eat pork in Saudi Arabia?
Saudi law prohibits alcoholic beverages and pork products in the country as they are considered to be taboo in Islam, even though both can be consumed if Muslims are starving or dying of thirst. Those violating the law are handed harsh punishments. Drug trafficking is always punished by death.
Why was Coca-Cola banned in Saudi Arabia?
Back in the 1960s Arab governments imposed a boycott on Coca-Cola after the firm said it would open a bottling factory in Israel.
What clothes are not allowed in Saudi Arabia?
Yes, there are Saudi Arabia women clothing rules that require modest dress, but wearing the abaya is no longer mandatory as it used to be for foreign female tourists. It is best for female foreign tourists to wear loose clothing that covers the entire body, avoiding clothing that is too short or too tight.
What foods are banned in Saudi Arabia?
Pork and Pork Products • Why: Most Middle Eastern countries follow Islamic laws, which strictly prohibit pork. Applies to: Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, etc. ⸻ 2. Alcohol and Alcohol-Infused Products • Why: Alcohol is either banned or heavily regulated in many Middle Eastern nations.
What is life expectancy in Saudi Arabia?
Saudi Arabia life expectancy for 2022 was 77.31, a 0.29% increase from 2021.
What is considered rude in Saudi Arabia?
So what is considered rude in Saudi Arabia? At the top of the list is public confrontation. Direct criticism—especially when it touches on Islam, the royal family, or long-standing social customs—is rarely received well. Even when meant as casual commentary, such remarks can feel intrusive or offensive.
Can I wear my cross in Saudi Arabia?
No, you generally cannot wear a cross or display any non-Islamic religious symbols publicly in Saudi Arabia, as it's considered a punishable offense under strict Islamic law, risking harassment, arrest, or deportation, though some private religious practice is tolerated within secure compounds or for foreign workers.
Can you take photos in Saudi Arabia?
Photography in public places in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is not prohibited except in specific areas, which are as follows: photography in public locations, whether by mobile phones equipped with a camera or the like, which leads to infringing on people's private lives negatively or defaming or causing harm to them.
Can I wear makeup in Saudi?
Can I wear makeup? Yes. The Arab women (Saudi women included) are very skilled in the art of applying makeup. Even if you see only the eyes, they are dramatically shadowed and otherwise elaborately enhanced, and their eyebrows waxed into precise shapes.
Can couples hold hands in Saudi Arabia?
When it comes to social etiquette, public displays of affection should be avoided, even between married couples. Holding hands is totally fine – just keep it warm and simple. Greetings between friends are also warm, but measured: men usually shake hands.
Can I wear flip flops in Saudi Arabia?
If you are visiting religious places, you will need shoes that are easy to remove but are still comfortable and supportive. Strappy sandals, court shoes and heels might be appropriate for ladies attending weddings, formal gatherings or going on shopping sprees, and flip-flops are always handy.