One of the most important aspects to consider before traveling to Riyadh is clothing. The Saudi capital is a modern and cosmopolitan city, but it is also deeply rooted in local traditions. Dressing appropriately is not just a matter of cultural respect, but also of comfort and safety in an extreme climate. Contrary to what one might think, the rules regarding clothing in Riyadh have relaxed in recent years, but it remains essential to adopt a modest and covering style. This guide will provide you with all the necessary information to choose the right wardrobe for your trip, with specific tips for men and women.
The Cultural Context: Tolerance and Respect
Riyadh, like the rest of Saudi Arabia, is a city that, while undergoing rapid social transformation, maintains strong conservative roots. Clothing is an important aspect of local culture and a sign of respect for the country's traditions. Dressing modestly is not an arbitrary request, but a way to honor local customs and facilitate interaction with the population, known for its hospitality. Even though the rules are less strict than in the past, it is always better to err on the side of excessive caution, especially in more traditional areas and during the holy month of Ramadan.
General Dress Code for Men and Women
The basic principle is simple: dress modestly and cover up. For both sexes, it is advisable to cover shoulders and knees in all public places . Breathable fabrics like cotton and linen are ideal for dealing with the heat, but it is good to always have a sweater or a light jacket on hand for cool evenings and air-conditioned environments .
For Men
Men in Riyadh can dress relatively modern, but with some precautions.
What to wear: long pants (jeans or chinos) and long-sleeved shirts or t-shirts are the safest choice. Short-sleeved shirts are generally accepted, but it is better to avoid tank tops. In formal contexts or for a more integrated look, one can opt for the thobe, the traditional white tunic worn by locals .
What to avoid: shorts are strongly discouraged and, in many areas, prohibited . Also avoid overly tight shirts or those with offensive writing or images.
For Women
The rules for women in Riyadh are a bit more specific, but there has also been a significant relaxation in this case.
The abaya is no longer mandatory: Contrary to a still widespread idea, female tourists are no longer required to wear the abaya (the long traditional black cloak) in public . However, many local women and tourists still choose to wear it as a sign of respect or for practicality.
Cosa indossare: l'alternativa è un abbigliamento modesto e ampio that cover arms and legs. A pair of loose pants or a long skirt, paired with a shirt or a long-sleeve top, works perfectly. It is important that the clothes are not transparent or too tight.
The veil (hijab): is not mandatory for tourists outside of places of worship. Many women still choose to cover their hair in more conservative areas or for greater peace of mind. In mosques, such as the Imam Turki bin Abdullah Mosque, covering the head is essential.
| Clothing item | Man | Woman |
|---|---|---|
| Upper part | T-shirt or shirt (long sleeves preferred) | Shirt or top (long sleeves), loose |
| Lower part | Long pants (jeans, chinos) | Long pants or long skirt |
| Veil / Abaya | Not applicable | Not mandatory but the abaya or a headscarf is recommended in conservative areas |
| To avoid | Short shorts, tank tops | Tight, low-cut, transparent clothes, shorts |
Fabric Tips: Dealing with the Climate of Riyadh
Riyadh has a desert climate, with scorching summers and mild winters. Choosing the right fabrics is essential for comfort.
Spring and Autumn: Temperatures are milder. Fabrics like cotton and linen are perfect for the day. Also bring a light sweater or jacket for the evenings, which can be cool.
Winter (from December to March) : The days are pleasant (around 18-22°C), but the nights can be cold (below 10°C) . It is essential to pack a heavy jacket or a coat, in addition to sweaters and scarves .
Summer (from June to September) : Temperatures can exceed 45°C. Choose fabrics lightweight, breathable, and light-colored to reflect the sun. Cotton, linen, and technical fabrics are ideal.
Extra Tips for a Smooth Trip
In addition to the dress code, here are some unwritten rules to respect the local culture and have a smooth experience.
Respect prayer times: during the five daily prayers, shops and restaurants may close for about 20-30 minutes. It is a moment of pause and reflection to be respected .
Be careful with photos: photographing people, especially women, without their explicit consent is considered very rude. Always ask for permission .
Alcohol and behavior: alcohol is strictly prohibited throughout the country . Similarly, affectionate gestures in public between unmarried couples are frowned upon. Maintain a reserved behavior.
A little Arabic: learning a few words of Arabic, like "Shukran" (thank you), can be greatly appreciated .
FAQ-HOW TO DRESS IN RIYAD
Is the abaya mandatory for female tourists in Riyadh?
No, the abaya is no longer mandatory for foreign women in Riyadh . However, modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees is still required. In some more traditional areas or formal contexts, it can still be a wise choice .
Do women need to cover their hair?
The veil (hijab) is not mandatory for tourists in public places, unlike in Iran . The only exception is entering a mosque, where it is essential to cover the head .
Are shorts accepted for men?
No, shorts are generally prohibited and strongly discouraged in public for men . Always opt for long pants.
How should one dress to visit a luxury mall like the Kingdom Centre?
The same principle of modesty applies to shopping malls. Men and women should wear clothes that cover shoulders and knees. In more luxurious environments, elegant and well-groomed attire is more than appropriate .
What fabrics are best for the climate in Riyadh?
Cotton and linen are perfect for their breathability. In winter, bring wool or fleece garments for the cold evenings .
What should I wear if I visit Riyadh during Ramadan?
During Ramadan, the attention to respect is even higher. It is important to dress extremely modestly and refrain from eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours.
Is it necessary to dress differently to visit Diriyah or the desert?
In Diriyah, a UNESCO World Heritage site, modest clothing similar to that of the city is recommended. For desert excursions (like the Edge of the World), sturdy hiking shoes and comfortable walking clothes are essential, along with heavy jackets for the evening.
How to dress in Riyadh
Choosing clothing for a trip to Riyadh is a balancing act between personal comfort, cultural respect, and adapting to an extreme climate. Fortunately, the rules have become more flexible, especially for women, who are no longer required to wear the abaya. The main advice remains to opt for a modest and covering style, favoring breathable fabrics for the day and heavier garments for the cool winter evenings. Dressing appropriately will not only avoid embarrassing situations but will also be the first step in establishing a relationship of respect and openness with Saudi culture, making your trip a more authentic and enjoyable experience. For more useful information on how to pack and organize your itinerary, consult our complete guide for vacations in Riyadh.
Review date: June 20, 2026