Saudi Arabia To Fine 1,000 Saudi Riyal For Playing Music During Prayer…

TL;DR

• New decency laws in Saudi Arabia.
• Music during prayers now fined.
• Dress codes are strictly enforced.

Saudi Arabia has implemented a set of Public Decency Violations and Fines, including a specific ban on playing music during prayer times with penalties ranging from 1,000 to 2,000 Saudi Riyals.

The new regulations, announced by the Kingdom’s oversight authorities, cover a wide spectrum of public behavior with fines designed to preserve social order and cultural values.

The legislation specifically targets:

• Music during prayer times: 1,000 SAR (first offense), 2,000 SAR (repeat offense)
• Inappropriate clothing: Fines from 100-500 SAR for revealing attire, sleepwear in public, or clothing with offensive content
• Sexually indecent behavior: 3,000 SAR (first offense), 6,000 SAR (repeat offense)
• Public nuisance violations: Including loud music in residential areas (500-1,000 SAR), littering (500-1,000 SAR), and skipping queues (50-100 SAR)

The laws also address specific public conduct, such as unauthorized photography (1,000-2,000 SAR), occupying seats reserved for elderly/disabled persons (200-400 SAR), and igniting fires in public parks (100-200 SAR).

Authorities emphasized that these measures align with the Kingdom’s commitment to maintaining public decorum while balancing modernization efforts under Vision 2030.

The regulations apply equally to residents and visitors, with explicit dress code guidelines requiring modest attire in public spaces.

Enforcement will be carried out by designated public decency monitors across Saudi cities, with fines issued immediately for violations.