Discover everything you need to know about Saudi Arabia Dress Code for Tourists. A comprehensive destination guide updated for 2026.
The dress code for foreign women in Saudi Arabia has been almost entirely deregulated since 2018. You are no longer legally required to wear the abaya (long black cloak) or the hijab (headscarf) in public spaces. However, the legal standard now is "modest dress."
The cultural consensus for "modest dress" includes covering your shoulders and knees. Many women opt for loosely fitting trousers, midi-skirts, or long dresses. While you don't need an abaya, carrying a lightweight pashmina or cardigan is highly recommended for entering religious contexts or air-conditioned malls. It is important to note that when visiting holy cities like Madinah, an abaya is often still expected as a gesture of deep respect.