Navigating the dress code for Riyadh can seem complex, with outdated information often conflicting with the realities of modern Saudi Arabia. The city is undergoing rapid social transformation, and rules that were iron-clad just a few years ago have relaxed significantly for foreign visitors.
This guide made by us, the WildyNess Team, provides a practical, up-to-date handbook on what to wear. Our goal is to help you pack confidently, ensuring you feel comfortable, respectful, and appropriate as you explore the capital. Dressing thoughtfully is not just about following rules; it's a sign of respect that can open doors to more meaningful local interactions.
Understanding the Dress Code in Riyadh: Key Principles
Before you pack, it's essential to understand the context. The most significant change for travelers came in 2019 with the introduction of new visa rules and the "Public Decency Regulations."
The Legal vs. Social Norms
Legally, the rules for foreign tourists (especially women) have been relaxed. The mutawwa (religious police) no longer actively enforce a strict dress code on foreigners as they once did. However, Saudi Arabia remains a deeply conservative society. Social expectations are often stronger than legal ones.
While you may see tourists in central Riyadh neighborhoods pushing boundaries, adhering to a more modest standard will earn you respect, help you blend in, and also prevent unwanted attention or awkwardness.
What is "Public Decency"?
The 2019 regulations are the official guideline. They are somewhat vague, outlawing "indecent" clothing or behavior. In practice, this means all travelers (both men and women) should avoid:
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Clothing that is overly tight or form-fitting.
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Clothing with profane language or images.
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Sheer or transparent fabrics.
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Clothing that fails to cover the shoulders and knees in public.
This last point (shoulders and knees covered) is your most important baseline rule for all public spaces.
Why Modesty Still Matters
While you are not legally required to dress like a local, doing so shows respect. For men, this means avoiding shorts. For women, it means opting for loose-fitting clothing that doesn't draw attention. This approach is not just respectful but also practical; it helps you navigate all environments, from traditional souqs to modern malls, without feeling out of place.
What to Wear in Riyadh: A Guide for Women
This is the area of most confusion for travelers. Here is the clear, current guidance.
Is a Abaya Mandatory for Female Travelers in Riyadh?
No. As of 2019, abayas are not legally mandatory for foreign female tourists in Saudi Arabia. You will see many Western and Asian tourists in Riyadh exploring in their own modest clothing.
That said, you will also see many foreign women choose to wear one. Why?
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It's practical: An abaya is the simplest "one-and-done" outfit. You can wear whatever you want underneath (within reason) and simply slip the abaya on before leaving your hotel.
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It blends in: It is the fastest way to "disappear" into the local environment and avoid standing out.
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It's respectful: It is the local standard of dress, and wearing one is often appreciated, particularly in more traditional areas.
You can buy a simple, lightweight abaya at any mall in Riyadh (like the Riyadh Gallery or Al Nakheel Mall) upon arrival.
Practical Alternatives to the Abaya
If you choose not to wear an abaya, your wardrobe should be built around the "loose and covered" principle. Think "modest chic."
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Trousers: Wide-leg linen pants, loose-fitting trousers, or palazzo pants are excellent.
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Dresses & Skirts: Maxi dresses and long skirts (ankle-length) are perfect, especially those with long sleeves.
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Tops: Long-line tunics, button-down shirts (linen or cotton), and blouses that cover your elbows and are not low-cut.
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Layers: A long-line cardigan, lightweight duster, or kimono-style jacket is your most valuable tool. You can wear this over a simpler top-and-trousers combination to instantly ensure modesty.
What About a Headscarf (Hijab)?
A headscarf is not required for foreign women in public. You will see countless women (locals and foreigners) without one.
The only exception is when visiting a mosque. If you plan to visit a religious site like the Al Rajhi Grand Mosque, you will be required to cover your hair. It's always a good idea to carry a lightweight pashmina or scarf in your bag for this purpose.
Packing List: Essential Clothing for Women
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3-4 long-sleeved, loose-fitting tops (blouses, tunics).
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2-3 pairs of loose trousers (linen, cotton, or a smart polyester blend).
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1-2 maxi dresses or ankle-length skirts.
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1-2 long cardigans or lightweight jackets to wear over other outfits.
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A pashmina or large scarf: This is a multi-tool for sun protection, warmth in strong AC, or as a head covering for a mosque visit.
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Smart casual outfits for upscale restaurants (e.g., a stylish modest dress, a smart blouse and wide-leg trousers).
What Not to Wear
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Leggings or yoga pants (unless worn under a long tunic or dress).
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Crop tops, tank tops, or sleeveless shirts.
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Shorts or mini-skirts.
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Anything sheer, see-through, or backless.
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Anything with a low-cut neckline or that exposes cleavage.
What to Wear in Riyadh: A Guide for Men
The rules for men are simpler and have changed less over time, but they are still important.
Are Shorts Allowed for Men in Riyadh?
Generally, no. While you might see a tourist wearing shorts, it is widely considered inappropriate for men to wear shorts in public places like malls, restaurants, or souqs. Long trousers are the expected norm.
Shorts are acceptable only in the following contexts:
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At your hotel pool or gym.
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For specific sporting activities (e.g., running in a private compound).
Even on a desert trip, most local men will wear trousers. We recommend lightweight hiking or linen trousers for comfort.
Shirts and Tops: Best Practices
- Sleeved shirts are the standard. This includes short-sleeved shirts, like polo shirts or t-shirts, which are perfectly acceptable for casual touring.
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Avoid tank tops or sleeveless muscle shirts in public.
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For business meetings or upscale restaurants, a long-sleeved, collared shirt is appropriate.
Many local men wear the traditional thobe (a long white robe) and ghutra (head covering). As a tourist, it's best to stick to modest Western clothing unless you are specifically invited to wear a thobe for an event.
Packing List: Essential Clothing for Men
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3-4 pairs of long trousers (lightweight chinos, linen pants, or dark jeans for evenings).
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Multiple sleeved shirts (a mix of smart polo shirts and casual t-shirts).
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1-2 long-sleeved button-down shirts (for cooler evenings or formal dinners).
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A light jacket or pullover for winter nights or strong air-conditioning.
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Smart-casual outfit for fine dining (e.g., collared shirt, dark trousers, closed shoes).
Practical Considerations for All Travelers
Footwear: Comfort and Culture
You will be doing a significant amount of walking, from sprawling malls to the uneven stone paths of historical sites like Diriyah.
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Comfort is key: Prioritize comfortable walking shoes or smart sneakers (like Allbirds, Vejas, or On).
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Sandals: Sandals are acceptable for both men and women. However, avoid flimsy rubber flip-flops, which are only for pool or beach settings. Choose a more structured sandal (like Birkenstocks or leather sandals).
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Dust: Riyadh is dusty. White canvas shoes will get dirty quickly. Opt for darker colors or materials like leather that can be easily wiped clean.
Packing for the Riyadh Climate (Beyond the Heat)
It is a common mistake to assume Riyadh is hot all year. It has a desert climate with two distinct seasons.
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Summer (May-October): This period is defined by extreme, dry heat. Temperatures regularly exceed 45°C (113°F). Your focus must be on breathable, loose, light-colored fabrics like linen, light cotton, and moisture-wicking blends.
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Winter (November-March): This is the main travel season for a reason. Days are pleasant and warm, similar to a Mediterranean summer. However, nights and early mornings get surprisingly cold. Temperatures can drop to 5-10°C (40-50°F). You absolutely must pack layers, including a warm jacket, sweaters, and closed-toe shoes.
Dressing for Specific Activities
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Mosque Visits: As mentioned, women must cover their hair. Both men and women must be fully covered (ankles and wrists). Mosques open to tourists, like Al Rajhi, often provide complimentary abayas and headscarves at the visitor's entrance.
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Desert Excursions: For a trip to the "Edge of the World" or dune bashing, prioritize practicality. Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes (not sandals) to protect from sand and sharp rocks. Bring layers, as the desert temperature drops dramatically as soon as the sun sets.
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Fine Dining & Upscale Malls: Riyadh has a sophisticated dining scene. For high-end restaurants (especially in areas like The Zone or U Walk), "smart casual" is the minimum. Avoid t-shirts or overly casual tour-wear.
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Historical Diriyah: This UNESCO World Heritage site requires a lot of walking on uneven ground. Wear your most comfortable shoes. The area is frequented by both locals and tourists, so the standard modest dress code applies. For more ideas on what to see, check out our
3-day Riyadh Itinerary .
Where to Buy Modest Clothing in Riyadh
If you arrive and find your wardrobe isn't quite right, it's easy to fix. Every mall in Riyadh is filled with international brands (like Zara, H&M, and Marks & Spencer) that have dedicated "modest wear" collections. You can also find local shops selling abayas and scarves at every price point.
Common Questions from Travellers About Dressing in Riyadh
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Can I wear makeup? Yes. Makeup is very popular in Saudi Arabia. You will see many local women wearing full, fashionable makeup.
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Can I wear a bikini at a hotel pool? This depends on the hotel. At most international chain hotels (Marriott, Hilton, Four Seasons), bikinis and standard swimwear are acceptable for women at women-only pools or mixed-gender pools in more tourist-forward properties. Check your hotel's specific policy. You must be fully covered when walking from your room to the pool.
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What about Public Displays of Affection (PDA)? This is not a "dress code" issue, but it is a "public decency" one. Public displays of affection, including holding hands (for unmarried couples) or kissing, are not acceptable and should be avoided.
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What should my children wear? The dress code for pre-pubescent children is much more relaxed. Standard Western clothing (including shorts and t-shirts for boys and girls) is perfectly fine.
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Can I hold hands with my spouse? Married couples holding hands is generally acceptable in major tourist and expat-heavy areas, but it's not common. Use discretion; it's more respectful to be more reserved in public.
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