How to Respect Saudi Traditions When Exploring the Kingdom

Saudi Arabia has already seen significant changes under the Vision 2030 blueprint, welcoming the world while still maintaining its identity. For many who are interested in visiting the Kingdom, this is a unique opportunity to witness its cutting-edge progress in combination with its rich heritage. Despite the efforts being made to diversify Saudi Arabia across the board, it is still important for visitors to explore in a respectful way. In essence, you want to ensure your travels are a positive experience for both yourself and the hosting community. 

The Cornerstone of Tradition

It is vital to remember that the Saudi community is built on and deeply cherishes its deep-rooted Islamic traditions and social customs. As such, a certain level of respect needs to be maintained for the nation’s spiritual and social fabric at all times. Naturally, for Western travelers, certain habits or activities might need more discretion in the Kingdom, despite it being common elsewhere. 

For example, high-intensity fitness activities like exercising in a crowded park or jogging in a market space can be out of the norm if not done at a specific time or venue. Head to a dedicated gym, track, or sports field to ensure non-invasiveness and modesty. Similarly, digital leisure, specifically online gaming and other forms of specialized digital recreation, has become increasingly popular for its generous welcome bonuses and frequent big payouts. If you’re looking to get started, here are their top picks in Saudi Arabia for trusted platforms offering top-tier rewards. Since most online games are enjoyed privately from home or a hotel room, remember to celebrate your wins quietly loud reactions could easily disturb those around you.

This keeps noise non-invasive, quiet, and restricted to your space. Even certain genres of music (or podcasts) could prove disruptive, so keeping volume low or strictly using headphones is a good way to show respect for your surrounding environment. Ultimately, there is no need to avoid doing these activities, but rather, you want to be respectful of the overall traditions in the way you go about enjoying these pastimes. 

Public Conduct and Appearance

Beyond personal hobbies, it is also important to comply with the standard for visible etiquette and social interactions. For one, modesty is a very important part of the Islamic culture, and while you do not need to sport traditional wear, you should still be respectful where possible. As such, (this applies to men and women), opt for clothing that will cover your shoulders and knees when going out in public. When it comes to swim attire or gym wear, rather bring a change of clothes as opposed to wearing them to the venue. 

PDA (Public Displays of Affection) is not very common, so try to avoid this where possible if traveling with your partner. Additionally, in a professional or social setting, Saudi women should initiate a handshake with a man, so it is best to wait for this signal or just offer a polite nod instead. This may sound restrictive to travelers who come from Western countries, but respect is the key principle. Progressive changes are underway, but the pace the Kingdom moves at should be the one you follow. 

The Rhythm of Social Spaces and Time

When it comes to navigating daily life in the Saudi community, there are a few cultural courtesies to familiarize yourself with. Prayer times are very strict and happen promptly each day. During these times, shops and other commercial activities will be shut down for a short period, which can lead to delays. This is a good opportunity to practice patience and cultural observation, rather than treating it as an inconvenience.

Hospitality in Saudi Arabia is known for its inherent warmth, but there are still social standards to uphold. If you are invited into a home or office or offered a cup of coffee or a meal, accepting it with grace is the best way to show respect. Removing shoes before entering someone’s home is also equally important, as it showcases respect and keeps the living space clean.

Lastly, family homes will often have designated sections wherein only family members are allowed entry. Remember to adhere to these divisions, as it showcases that you value the family’s privacy. Basically, think of it as the Western equivalent of a stranger entering your home, going through your cupboards, or lying down in your bed. 

Digital and Content Citizenship

In the modern era, there are also digital etiquette rules that you will need to adhere to. One of the best parts of travelling is documenting your trip through photography. However, in Saudi communities, you will always need explicit permission before taking a picture in public, where people (especially women) might be in frame. In addition, government buildings and military sites are strictly off limits due to security purposes. Lastly, your online presence should reflect the same public decency you showcase in the physical realm (i.e., do not share online material that will offend Islamic and national values).

Final Thoughts

As you are travelling to another country, you want to be as open-minded as possible. Although Saudi culture might be a direct contrast to your own, it is still important to view it as a pathway to connection. Be observant, ask questions (respectfully, of course), and enjoy the exposure to a new, rich culture.