Saudi Arabia is a nation deeply rooted in tradition, yet undergoing rapid modernisation. Travellers will experience a unique blend of ancient customs and modern development. Whether visiting for leisure, business, or exploration, understanding Saudi customs is key to connecting with the people and enjoying one’s stay. This guide offers insight into understanding Saudi customs and traditions, along with recent changes that have significantly reshaped the country’s social landscape.
1. Hafawa and hospitality: the heart of Saudi Arabian culture
Hospitality, or hafawa, is at the core of Saudi Arabian life. The concept of hafawa, loosely translated as “surrounding with warmth and care,” extends beyond the usual notion of hospitality. It’s about ensuring guests feel truly welcomed and cared for, making them feel at home from the moment they arrive.
The offering of Arabic coffee (qahwa) and dates is a key symbol of this tradition. Upon arrival, guests are often served qahwa and dates as a sign of goodwill. It’s polite to accept this offering and take at least a small sip, as declining may be perceived as impolite. In Saudi culture, the host will refill your cup until you politely indicate you’ve had enough by shaking the cup.
Shared meals are a major part of Saudi social life, symbolising community and social bonding. Whether in homes or restaurants, meals are often large and communal, featuring dishes like lamb, chicken, and rice. In traditional settings, men and women may dine separately, though this is becoming less common in larger cities like Riyadh and Jeddah.
2. Dress code: modesty is essential
One of the key points to remember when it comes to understanding Saudi customs is that while Saudi Arabia has relaxed some of its dress codes, modesty remains a cornerstone of its cultural values. Understanding these expectations is crucial for travellers wishing to show respect for local customs.
For men, the traditional thobe, a long, flowing white robe, is still widely worn. Men are expected to wear long trousers and shirts with sleeves in public, with shorts and sleeveless shirts generally discouraged.
Foreign men may wear the thobe – especially in cultural or formal settings. In fact, wearing a thobe can be seen as a sign of respect and an appreciation of local customs, rather than an insult.
For women, the abaya, a loose black cloak, was traditionally worn in public, but since 2019, non-Saudi women are no longer required to wear it. However, modest attire remains expected, with women advised to cover shoulders and knees. A headscarf is not mandatory unless visiting a mosque or religious site, but carrying one is recommended as a sign of respect.
3. Social behaviour and expectations
Saudi Arabia adheres to Sharia law, which strictly prohibits the consumption and possession of alcohol and drugs. Violating these laws can result in severe penalties, including imprisonment and deportation, so it’s important to avoid bringing any prohibited substances into the country.
Privacy is highly valued in Saudi society, especially concerning women and families. It is considered highly disrespectful to take photographs of people without their consent, particularly women and children. Always ask for permission before photographing others, and avoid taking photos in restricted areas such as military or government buildings.
Public displays of affection, even between married couples, should be avoided. Gender interaction can also be nuanced. Men should not offer handshakes to women unless the woman initiates. Physical contact between unrelated men and women is generally discouraged.
4. Gender segregation and public interaction
In many parts of Saudi Arabia, gender segregation is still practiced, though this has become less strict in recent years. In some restaurants and cafes, there may be separate sections for families and single men. However, more modern and international venues, particularly in major cities, often have more relaxed rules.
Public spaces like lifts or public transportation may reflect these customs. For example, a Saudi woman may avoid entering a lift alone with a man, which is considered normal and a reflection of local cultural expectations. Visitors should respect these boundaries and avoid any behaviour that could be perceived as intrusive or inappropriate.
5. Greetings and etiquette: showing respect
Greetings in Saudi Arabia are formal and respectful, reflecting the Kingdom’s social values. The traditional greeting, “As-Salamu Alaikum” (peace be upon you), is commonly used, with the response being “Wa Alaikum As-Salam” (and peace be upon you).
Men typically greet each other with handshakes, often followed by pleasantries about family and health. When meeting a woman, it’s polite to wait and see if she extends her hand for a handshake. If she does not, a verbal greeting or nod is considered respectful. Public discussions should avoid sensitive topics like politics or religion, especially when interacting with people you don’t know well.
For women, when greeting others, one should follow a respectful and modest approach. A woman should wait for the other person to extend a hand before offering a handshake, especially with men, as some may not engage in physical contact. If the handshake is not offered, a polite verbal greeting or a nod is appropriate. For greeting other women, a handshake or even a kiss on each cheek (common in many Arab cultures) may be acceptable, depending on the level of familiarity.
Hand on the heart
In Saudi Arabia, it’s common for both men and women to place their right hand on their heart as a gesture of respect and sincerity during greetings, especially when physical contact is avoided. This gesture often accompanies a verbal greeting, such as “As-Salamu Alaikum” (see above), and is an elegant way to convey warmth and respect without shaking hands, particularly when greeting the opposite gender. It’s a simple yet culturally significant sign of respect, widely appreciated in more formal or modest settings.
6. Religious practices: the role of Islam
Islam plays a central role in Saudi life, and many customs are influenced by religious practices. Prayer is observed five times a day, marked by the adhan (call to prayer), and during these times, businesses may close briefly. Friday is the holy day, and most businesses are closed for Jumu’ah, the Friday prayer.
It is important for visitors to have a good grasp of understanding Saudi customs, and they should be very respectful of these practices, particularly when near mosques or other religious sites. Non-Muslims are not allowed to enter Mecca, and visitors to Madinah should be mindful of designated areas off-limits to non-Muslims.
7. Evolving social norms: changes in recent years
In line with Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia has undergone significant social reforms that travellers should be aware of. Since 2018, women are allowed to drive, and they no longer require a male guardian’s permission to travel or work, giving them greater freedom and autonomy. These reforms reflect the Kingdom’s effort to modernise and make it more accessible to international visitors while maintaining its cultural and religious foundations.
8. Pool and beach etiquette in Saudi Arabia
When visiting pools or beaches in Saudi Arabia, modest attire is still expected, even in more relaxed settings.
For women, modest swimwear, such as a burkini, is recommended in public areas. However, in private resorts and compounds, particularly those catering to expatriates, western swimwear may be allowed. Men should wear swim shorts that extend to the knees, avoiding tight-fitting options like Speedos.
Public beaches often maintain a family-friendly environment, and some may have designated areas for men and families. In private beach resorts, rules may be more relaxed, but it’s always a good idea to check the venue’s policies.
9. Music and traditions in Saudi Arabia
Traditional Saudi music is an integral part of the Kingdom’s cultural heritage, often performed during special occasions, weddings, and national celebrations. Genres like Samri, a Bedouin musical style featuring singing and rhythmic clapping, and the Ardah, the iconic sword dance performed by men, are key elements of Saudi festivities.
Music in Saudi Arabia is deeply connected to its tribal history and Bedouin lifestyle, often accompanied by instruments like the oud (lute) and rebab (stringed instrument). Today, Saudi music is also showcased at cultural festivals like Winter at Tantora in AlUla, blending traditional sounds with contemporary performances.
Conclusion: the balancing of tradition and modernisation
Saudi Arabia offers an extraordinary blend of deep-rooted traditions and rapid modernisation. For travellers, respecting and understanding Saudi customs—whether in terms of hospitality, dress, or gender interaction—is essential for a fulfilling visit. As the Kingdom continues to evolve, it remains a place where the richness of the past coexists with a vision for the future, offering unique insights into both ancient and contemporary Saudi life.
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Research and text by Nuno Oliveira
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Read also: Saudi Arabia’s top 10 traditional festivals and events
