Country

Category

4 bans

Saudi Arabia ✕

Everything banned or restricted in Saudi Arabia, from apps and websites to books, movies, food and everyday activities. Use the category filter to narrow it down.

Saudi ArabiaBan liftedWomen drivingSaudi Arabia was the only country where women could not drive; the ban ended in June 2018.Activities & LawsDetails →Saudi ArabiaBannedAlcoholMaking, selling and drinking alcohol is prohibited; a single licensed store for non-Muslim diplomats opened in 2024.Food & DrinkDetails →Saudi ArabiaBannedPorkImporting pork and pork products is forbidden.Food & DrinkDetails →Saudi ArabiaBan liftedPublic cinemasCinemas were shut in the early 1980s and allowed to reopen in 2018.Movies & TVBanned 1980sDetails →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is banned in Saudi Arabia?

Saudi Arabia bans or restricts 2 things in our list, including Alcohol and Pork.

Which categories have the most bans in Saudi Arabia?

In our list: Food & Drink (2), Movies & TV (1), Activities & Laws (1).

Have any of these bans been lifted?

Yes, including Women driving and Public cinemas (1980s). Lifted bans stay on the list, marked "Ban lifted", so you can see how the rules changed.

Is this list up to date?

We review entries regularly and add new bans as they happen. Laws change, so check an official government source before you travel or act on this information.

Laws change often and many bans have exceptions. This list is for general information, not legal or travel advice. Check official government sources before you travel. Last updated: 12/10/2026.