



Looking to understand Saudi Arabia’s women’s dress code?
It can be overwhelming to know what to wear in a culture with specific expectations. But don’t worry, you’re not the only one wondering how to dress in line with Saudi traditions.
We’re here to help you navigate these guidelines with ease, providing practical advice and clear steps for dressing appropriately.
In this article, you’ll learn about:
- The Abaya and its modern updates
- Head coverings and face veils
- Footwear and accessories
By following these simple suggestions, you’ll dress with confidence while respecting local customs. Keep reading to find out how to make smart choices for your time in Saudi Arabia.
1. Saudi Women’s Dress Code: Abaya

The Abaya is a long, loose-fitting cloak worn over regular clothing by women in Saudi Arabia, making it a key piece of traditional Saudi Arabian clothing. Traditionally black, it has been updated with various colors and designs in modern styles.
In recent years, women have started wearing open or colored Abayas, incorporating different patterns and styles. The garment is often decorated with embroidery, lace, or modern details, combining tradition with contemporary fashion trends.
2. Saudi Women’s Dress Code: Head Covering

Saudi women typically wear a hijab (headscarf) or a Shayla (loose scarf) to cover their hair, neck, and sometimes the shoulders. The head covering comes in various styles, ranging from simple scarves to more elaborate wraps. The requirement for covering hair has become more flexible, especially in major cities, but it is still commonly worn.
While not legally required for foreign women, many Saudi women choose to wear a head covering as part of their cultural and religious practices.
3. Saudi Women’s Dress Code: Face Covering

The face covering is worn by some Saudi women, covering the face while leaving only the eyes visible. This can include the Niqab (a veil covering the face) or the Burqa (a full-body covering), although neither is legally required.
The decision to wear a face covering often depends on personal preference, family traditions, or regional customs. While it is not mandatory by law, it remains a choice for some women as part of their personal or religious practices.
See Also Female Court Dress Code
4. Saudi Women’s Dress Code: Footwear

Casual: Flat sandals, slip-on shoes, or comfortable sneakers are commonly worn for everyday activities.
Formal: High heels, embellished flats, or stylish wedges are often chosen to match the abaya. Luxury designer shoes are popular among fashionable Saudi women, especially in urban areas.
Traditional: For cultural attire, women may wear embroidered slippers known as “Madas.”
Religious Occasions: In religious or traditional settings, closed-toe shoes are often preferred, with simple, easy-to-remove footwear used for mosque visits.
5. Saudi Women’s Dress Code: Grooming and Makeup

Hairstyling: Even when covered by a hijab, hair is often kept well-groomed, and many women choose professional hairstyling for special occasions.
Makeup: Makeup is widely used, with many Saudi women favoring bold eyeliner, defined brows, and matte lipsticks. Bold eye makeup is especially common, given the niqab covering most of the face. Lipstick, foundation, and contouring are also popular.
Skincare: Skincare is highly valued, with many using high-end beauty products to maintain smooth and glowing skin.
Perfume: Fragrances, including perfume and oud (traditional Arabic scents), are commonly worn as part of personal grooming. Many women prefer high-end perfumes or traditional oud-based scents.
Nail Care: Well-manicured nails, often adorned with polish or henna designs, are trendy.
6. Saudi Women’s Dress Code: Accessories

Jewelry: Jewelry such as gold bracelets, rings, and necklaces is commonly worn, often reflecting cultural significance and adding elegance.
Handbags: Handbags, including luxury designer brands, are an essential part of Saudi women’s fashion and are often used to complete an outfit.
Sunglasses: Large, stylish sunglasses are both a fashion statement and a practical choice for sun protection. Sunglasses, along with stylish watches, are especially popular in cities like Riyadh and Jeddah.
Scarves & Belts: Scarves and belts are used to enhance outfits, providing stylish and modest layering options.

Saudi Arabia Women’s Dress Code: A Recap
Saudi Arabia’s dress code emphasizes modesty and respect for cultural values. Women are expected to wear clothing that aligns with local traditions, such as abayas or other modest garments, adhering to the region’s strict dress code. This dress code ensures that women’s attire reflects the cultural and social expectations of Saudi Arabia.
In many cases, women cover their hair with a hijab or shayla, as is customary in Middle Eastern countries, maintaining the practice of modesty. Accessories are generally kept simple to preserve a modest appearance, and loose-fitting clothing is preferred to ensure comfort while adhering to cultural expectations.
For formal or religious occasions, clothing should be respectful and follow the region’s customs, with an emphasis on loose clothing.
By following these guidelines, women help uphold the cultural norms of Saudi Arabia and contribute to an atmosphere of respect. Adhering to the strict dress code shows respect for local traditions and values, allowing women to meet societal expectations and preserve the modesty that is central to Middle Eastern culture.
FAQ
Women are expected to wear modest clothing, typically an abaya, which is a loose black cloak. Many also wear a hijab to cover their hair.
While wearing an abaya is not legally required, it is a cultural norm, and most women wear it in public. Foreign women are not required to wear one but should dress modestly.
Covering the face is optional. Some women wear a niqab or burqa, but it is not legally required.