Saudi Arabia might have lifted ban on cinemas, but here are 10 normal things which you still can't do

Saudi Arabia on Monday lifted a decades-long ban on cinemas, part of a series of social reforms by the powerful crown prince that is shaking up the ultra-conservative kingdom. Reviving cinemas would represent a paradigm shift in the kingdom, which is promoting entertainment as part of a sweeping reform plan dubbed "Vision 2030", despite opposition from conservatives. But here are 10 normal things which you cannot imagine to do if you are in Saudi Arabia.

Updated on:

12 Dec 2017, 5:29 am

2 min read

All women, including foreigners, have to wear black clothes called Abaya. They have to cover themselves from head to toe. They are strictly prohibited to wear colourful clothes so that they don't attract a men's attention. (Photo | AP)

Intermingling of both the sexes is strictly forbidden unless they are family members. Malls, restaurants have separate sections for both male and female. Saudi women are supposed to limit their interaction with men they aren't related to. Unlawful mixing leads to criminal charges being against both men and women, with women obviously being subjected to a tougher punishment.

If you love music, then Saudi Arabia is not a place for you to land up. You will not hear any music played in malls, department stores or groceries shops. Music classes are not allowed in public schools, because music is not considered Islamic.

A female doctor isn't allowed to treat a male patient; but a male doctor can treat a female patient, depending on the family and the relatives of the woman.

Riyadh is the only city where women can travel using public transportation. Of course, there are separate sections for both men and women. (Photo | AP)

If you are on a trip to Saudi, and if you decide to have a glass of a drink may be a Champagne, totally a bad idea! Consumption of any liquor is forbidden. Penalties for the possession of, or trade in alcohol are severe, and both result in prison sentences.

If you are all lovey dovey on 14th February i.e on Valentine Day, make sure you are not wearing anything red. Anything red is strictly prohibited on this day, as the authorities consider the celebration of Valentine Day is Unislamic.

Love sausages? Or a bacon? In Saudi under the strict Islamic law, eating or consumption of pork in any form is strictly prohibited. They believe only 'Halal' foods are fit for consumption and these type of food is allowed in the country.

Women are not permitted to work in specific jobs in Saudi Arabia, especially those that men traditionally carry out. Education or medical fields are the most common fields that women are permitted to work in. Hence, opportunities to teach English in Saudi Arabia are typically open to both women and men. (Photo | AP)