Saudi Arabia is taking a significant step toward standardizing professional appearance across the nation with a comprehensive new dress code proposed by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (HRSD). The draft "Code of Appearance and Conduct" aims to establish uniform standards for all employees in both public and private sectors.
The proposed regulations are currently undergoing public consultation, indicating the government's approach to gathering feedback before final implementation. This move represents one of the most detailed workplace appearance mandates in the Kingdom's recent history.
Specific Requirements for Different Employee Groups
The new code establishes distinct clothing requirements based on nationality and gender. For Saudi male employees, the regulations mandate wearing the traditional national dress, which includes the thawb (the long white robe) along with either the ghutra or shemagh headdress. This requirement emphasizes national identity and cultural pride within professional environments.
Expatriate male workers face different requirements. Non-Saudi male employees must wear formal business suits during work hours, eliminating any ambiguity about appropriate business casual attire and ensuring a consistent professional standard among foreign staff members.
Modesty Standards for Female Employees
The regulations provide clear guidelines for all female employees, regardless of their nationality. Women must wear modest clothing that covers the body completely and should avoid garments that are either tight-fitting or transparent.
These requirements extend beyond daily office activities to include official functions and media appearances related to their professional roles. The guidelines aim to maintain standards of decency and professionalism across all work-related settings.
Broader Conduct Rules and Enforcement Mechanisms
The code encompasses more than just clothing standards. It addresses overall professional conduct, requiring employees to maintain good behavior, personal hygiene, and a dignified appearance at all times.
The regulations specifically prohibit wearing accessories or items displaying political, ideological, or offensive slogans, symbols, or images. This provision ensures workplaces remain free from potentially divisive content.
Employers bear significant responsibility for enforcement. Private companies must develop and display written internal dress codes based on the national regulations. Failure to establish or enforce these standards can result in penalties under Saudi Labor Law, with historical fines reaching up to SR 5,000 for establishments violating labor regulations.
As the public consultation period continues, businesses and employees across Saudi Arabia are closely monitoring the development of these guidelines. The final version will depend on feedback received, but the direction indicates the Kingdom's commitment to creating a unified professional image across all economic sectors.
