Avoid 19 offences under new Saudi public decency rules

Riyadh - Saudi Arabia approves new regulations on public behaviour.

Saudi Arabia's Minister of Interior, Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Nayef, approved on Friday the implementation of new regulations on public decency, which identify 19 offences as punishable by fines.
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The regulations are meant to ensure that visitors and tourists in the Kingdom are aware of the law relating to public behaviour so that they comply with it.

The new regulations require men and women to dress modestly and to refrain from public displays of affection. Women are free to choose modest clothing.

As for the implementation of the law, Saudi Police officials are solely responsible for monitoring offences and imposing fines. Offenders have the right to submit a grievance claim before the Common Courtesy Department and appeal any fines.

The Kingdom encourages tourists and visitors to familiarise themselves with the law on public decency to avoid a fine as it looks forward to welcoming people from over the world.

• Saudi Arabia