What are the Social customs and Cultural aspects to followed while in Saudi Arabia
- The official religion is Islam. Public practice of any religion other than Islam is prohibited.
All women, including foreign, must wear an abaya (a full-length loose black robe that is worn over the normal clothes) outside the home and also have their heads covered.
- Men should also dress conservatively and not wear shorts in public or go without a shirt. Standard dress for men is lightweight trousers and shirt (usually long-sleeved).
- Gender segregation is practised in public places. Men and women are not allowed to interact in public unless they are related in some way. Public display of affection is not allowed.
- During the holy month of Ramadan, one should not eat, drink or smoke in public until sunset.
- Entry to Makkah and Madinah is strictly forbidden to all non-Muslims.
- All expatriates are expected respect the culture, customs and rules of Saudi Arabia. It is important for anyone travelling to Saudi Arabia to familiarize with local rules and regulations, working and living conditions and labour laws, etc. One may visit the websites of the Indian Embassy/Consulate and the Saudi Ministry of Labour for this purpose.
