Whether you’re traveling on a girls’ trip, with your partner or solo, keep in mind that weekends in Saudi are Friday and Saturday. Friday is considered a day of worship, so you may want to plan non-shopping activities on this day.

“If you want to wear it, if you don’t want to wear it, both are acceptable,” says a Saudi student. As a tourist, you are not expected to wear the same attire as locals, or to cover up to the same extent, but it’s highly recommended that you dress modestly. Specifically, loose-fitted clothing that covers the shoulders, cleavage and legs.
 

“We do prioritize modesty,” says a  Saudi woman from Khobar. “But we’re very much open to however a foreigner may present themselves.” Note: Modesty is also encouraged for men. For example, men should avoid wearing shorts above the knees or pajamas in public places.
 

When visiting religious sites such as mosques, all visitors must remove their shoes and wear long pants/skirts; women must cover their hair. Women traveling to Saudi should consider packing a scarf or a pashmina for this purpose.

No matter where you’re traveling, it’s best to be respectful. In other words, follow the golden rule: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” As long as you are being kind and considerate, you should not have a problem.

“Here, we’re very friendly with foreigners,” says another Saudi woman living in Khobar. “And when it comes to precautions, I would say to respect the culture, not to do anything offensive. Although even if you do something offensive, I feel like we’re very forgiving.”