Is It Illegal for Unmarried Couple To Stay Together in Saudi 2025

Saudi Arabia has been considered a religiously conservative country. Previously, Saudi Arabia did not allow unmarried couples to stay together or share a room in hotels.  

But recently, Saudi Arabia has passed a new law regarding the stay of unmarried couples together. According to this new law, unmarried foreign couples can now stay together in a hotel room in Saudi, and it will not be considered illegal. 

So if you are a foreign unmarried couple and planning to visit Saudi and stay together, then you can benefit from this law. However, this law does not apply to unmarried Saudi couples. 

Unmarried Couples and Saudi Arabia Laws

According to the news report by Al Jazeera, one of the biggest news agencies in the Middle East, Saudi Arabia has shown some softness towards the laws regarding unmarried couples staying together in Saudi.

To boost Tourism, the country now allows unmarried foreign couples to share a room in a hotel. Previously, the couples had to prove that they were married in order to stay together in the hotel. 

However, the laws regarding the local unmarried couple haven’t changed. They still have to provide legal documents of their marriage if they plan to book a room in a hotel. 

Can my girlfriend visit me in Saudi?

Yes, your girlfriend can visit you in Saudi. However, you can’t stay together in your compounds or rooms. The new law allows foreign unmarried couples to stay together in a hotel room. 

However, the situation varies from case to case. It is best to consult officials regarding this for more information. You can also get help from our team. 

What happens if unmarried couples are caught living together in Saudi?

If an unmarried couple is caught living together in Saudi Arabia, the consequences can be severe, as the country enforces strict laws based on Islamic principles. Here are some possible outcomes:

1. Fines

The couple may face significant financial penalties, depending on the severity of the violation and the circumstances.

2. Detention

Authorities might detain the individuals for investigation. This can involve questioning and, in some cases, jail time until a decision is made.

3. Deportation

Foreign nationals caught violating the law often face deportation. They may also be banned from re-entering Saudi Arabia.

4. Legal Action

Saudi law treats cohabitation outside marriage as a criminal offense. If prosecuted, the couple could face charges that might result in a trial and harsher penalties.

5. Social Consequences

In addition to legal penalties, being caught can lead to reputational damage, especially for residents or expatriates working in the Kingdom. Employers or sponsors might terminate contracts or revoke sponsorships.

The exact consequences can vary based on the situation, the couple’s nationality, and whether other violations are involved. It’s crucial to follow local laws to avoid such outcomes.

How Can Unmarried Couples Stay Together in Saudi in 2025?

Alternative Options: Getting Married

To live together legally in Saudi Arabia, marriage is the most straightforward solution. Saudi laws recognize and protect the rights of married couples, whether locals or expatriates. By getting married, couples can comply with Islamic law and avoid legal issues related to cohabitation.

If you are not yet married, consider the following steps:

1. Civil or Religious Ceremony

Depending on your nationality and faith, you can opt for a civil marriage in your home country or a religious ceremony recognized by Saudi authorities.

2. Marriage in Saudi Arabia

 For expatriates, getting married in Saudi Arabia requires fulfilling certain conditions. This includes providing official documents such as proof of identity, passports, and a no-objection certificate from your embassy.

3. Marriage Abroad

Many couples choose to marry in another country, such as the UAE, Georgia, or Seychelles, where processes might be simpler. Once married, you can register the marriage in Saudi Arabia to ensure its legality.\

5. Legal Documentation

After marriage, it is essential to carry proof, such as a marriage certificate, to avoid misunderstandings during legal checks or in situations like renting accommodation or booking hotels.

Getting married not only ensures you can live together legally but also provides peace of mind and aligns with Saudi cultural and legal expectations.