Planning a trip to a destination that is both ancient and ultra-modern, steeped in tradition yet rapidly evolving? That is Saudi Arabia! Having swung open its magnificent doors to international tourists only in 2019, this fascinating nation has quickly emerged as a true gem, particularly in the realm of wellness tourism and exceptional hospitality.

Beyond the stunning landscapes and luxurious experiences, Saudi Arabia offers a unique cultural tapestry where tradition and progress beautifully intertwine. You will witness this firsthand in its society, from the world's third-highest percentage of female entrepreneurs to pioneering women leading its burgeoning fashion scene. 

As you explore, you are likely to encounter a diverse spectrum of dress, from women in full niqab to others confidently sporting jeans and shirts with no headscarf or abaya.

This captivating blend, however, means that understanding what to wear in Saudi Arabia is even more critical than in most other places. Not only will you be navigating a challenging desert climate, but also a society with a rich social etiquette regarding attire. Before digging more, check a few stats of the emerging fashion industry. The Saudi Arabian fashion market is booming, projected to reach a staggering US $5.70 billion by 2030, driven by a young, fashion-conscious population and the ambitious economic diversification efforts outlined in Vision 2030. 

Whether you are wondering about the Saudi Arabia dress code for tourists, if female visitors need to wear an abaya, or simply what to pack for a comfortable and respectful journey, don't fret! 

The Sandy Times is here to guide you through the nuances of dressing for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Saudi Arabia.

Stepping into Saudi Arabia as a tourist is an invitation to explore a land where old traditions meet modern aspirations. As you venture on this incredible journey, understanding what to wear in Saudi Arabia is paramount, not just for comfort in its unique climate but also out of respect for its deeply rooted cultural values. While the country has opened its doors wide to international visitors, the essence of its social etiquette, particularly regarding dress, remains.

The overarching principle for all visitors in public places is to "respect common values, customs and traditions of Saudi Arabia." This translates directly to your wardrobe choices. Saudi Arabia's dress code for tourists emphasises modesty, a cornerstone of local culture. 

Therefore, your outfits should be discreet, avoiding anything too revealing or attention-grabbing. Avoid wearing clothing that features photos, figures, signs, or phrases that could be seen as violating common decency, especially when it comes to graphics.

One of the most common questions travellers ask when planning their packing list for Saudi Arabia is about specific clothing items, and for women, "Can I wear jeans?" is often at the top of that list. The good news is, yes, women can generally wear jeans in Saudi Arabia, but with some crucial considerations that align with the general Saudi Arabia dress code for tourists and the local cultural emphasis on modesty.

Foreign visitors are no longer required to wear the once-mandatory abaya (a long, loose-fitting robe), but they must still adhere to the principle of dressing modestly, especially in public spaces. This means that while your favourite denim might be a staple, the type of jeans you choose makes all the difference.

Here is a more detailed breakdown to guide your choices: 

For male tourists wondering what to wear in Saudi Arabia, understanding the local expectations across different cities is key. While the basic principle for men is modest attire that covers most of the body — think long-sleeved shirts and trousers, avoiding anything too short or tight — flexibility exists depending on your location.

In bustling metropolises like Riyadh and Jeddah, you will observe a more diverse range of clothing choices. Here, men might opt for Western business attire, such as formal suits, for work, reflecting the city's international outlook. 

However, as you venture into more conservative regions such as Qassim and Hail, adherence to traditional Saudi dress is more pronounced, with the elegant thobe and shemagh being the preferred choice for nearly all occasions.

Then, another question arises. Can men wear colourful clothing in Saudi Arabia? Absolutely. While neutral tones like white, grey, black, and brown are most common, brightly coloured clothing isn't forbidden. But bolder hues might attract more attention, so opting for medium or darker colours is often a good strategy to blend in respectfully. When it comes to footwear, all types are acceptable, with formal shoes for business, sandals for the heat, and sports shoes for exploring.

Most importantly, when visiting religious sites, such as mosques, or performing Umrah or Hajj in Mecca and Medina, a stricter dress code applies. Men should opt for loose, modest dresses that cover their shoulders and knees, such as a thobe or similar attire. For pilgrimages, they must wear the specific ihram attire. While enforcement of dress codes has become more flexible for tourists, dressing modestly out of respect for the local culture remains the best practice and can prevent any requests to adjust your attire.

The Kingdom experiences dramatic temperature shifts between summer and winter, demanding a thoughtful approach to packing. Let's see what to wear according to seasonal shifts.

Saudi summers, stretching from May into August, are characterised by intense heat, with temperatures regularly soaring from 30°C to a peak of 45°C. While humidity is generally low, the dry heat can be unforgiving. The key to summer dressing in Saudi Arabia is to cover up and stay cool simultaneously. Opt for lightweight clothes made from natural fibres like cotton or linen, which allow your skin to breathe.

Despite the heat, conservative dress codes remain in effect for both genders. For women, this means keeping all but your face and hands covered. While the abaya is no longer legally mandated for tourists, many find wearing a lightweight abaya, similar to those worn by locals, to be the most comfortable and culturally appropriate option. It helps you blend in and provides excellent sun protection. 

Although headscarves are technically optional for tourists, choosing to go without may attract disapproving stares in some areas. Therefore, having a light scarf on hand is advisable. For footwear, attitudes are more liberal, so feel free to pack open-toe styles to keep your feet cool.

Saudi Arabia's winter, which generally spans from December to January but extends a month on either side, offers a welcome respite from the intense summer heat. Average temperatures hover around a comfortable 20°C. However, it is essential to be prepared for variations, as nighttime temperatures in certain regions can drop close to zero, with January often being the coldest month. 

Rainfall is also more prevalent during winter, particularly in the central plateau, including Riyadh. While rare, a light dusting of snow can occur in mountainous areas like Jiraz, Tabuk, or Jabal al-Lawz.

The key to dressing for Saudi Arabian winters is layering. This makes it easy to add or remove clothing as temperatures fluctuate throughout the day and night. T-shirts are generally fine for daytime wear, but a light jacket or sweater will be necessary once the sun sets. 

If your itinerary includes the far north or western mountains, pack down jackets, scarves, and boots to combat the more frigid conditions. For women, winter is an ideal time to choose thicker abayas and comfortably layer up underneath for added warmth. Thicker scarves will also come in handy for wrapping up your hair and providing extra protection against the chill.

Preparing your suitcase for a trip to Saudi Arabia requires careful consideration. While specific items might differ for men and women, the basic rule for both genders is modesty. Gone are the days when an abaya was legally required for all women, but still, the current law emphasises modest clothing that covers arms and legs and avoids tight-fitting garments that reveal body curves. For men, the focus is on long pants and conservative tops.

To ensure a convenient and respectful journey, here is a detailed packing list for your Saudi Arabian escapade:

Today, modest dressing in Saudi Arabia is far from uniform. While classic black abayas remain popular, modern variations boast unique designs, fabrics, and embellishments like embroidery and lace, allowing for creative expression. 

Beyond abayas, stylish choices include loose-fitting tunics or shirt dresses paired with wide-leg trousers or long, flowing skirts. Scarves are not just for covering hair, they are key accessories for adding vibrant colours or patterns to any outfit. You can find these fashionable, modest options at online retailers, as well as in local boutiques, from designers, and from international brands with modest collections. 

Remember, the goal is always respectful, comfortable, and personally expressive attire that aligns with local customs.