Saudi Arabian Airlines has published a passenger dress code on its website.
The policy asks that travelers avoid clothing that could cause discomfort or offense to others. As the national carrier of Saudi Arabia, Saudia operates within a cultural and legal context shaped by a conservative interpretation of Islam.
According to the airline’s passenger code of conduct, women are requested to wear clothing that is not overly thin or tight and that covers arms and legs. Men are asked not to wear shorts. The airline notes it may refuse transport or remove passengers who do not comply with the dress code.
Saudi Arabia is among the countries with laws enforcing conservative dress in public. In many public settings within the country, women—both visitors and residents—are expected to wear an abaya, a loose outer garment worn over regular clothes.
The published in-flight guidelines have sparked online debate. Some commenters support the rules as consistent with local norms, while others raise concerns about their scope and application. Questions have been raised about whether the dress code applies equally to cabin crew and what impact it may have on international travelers who are not Muslim. Some critics suggest that if the airline is concerned about passengers’ attire, it could offer suitable alternatives rather than denying travel. Others argue that once a ticket is purchased, passengers should be free to dress as they choose.
How do you feel about the airline’s dress code?