Saudi Crown Prince’s Remark on Saudi Women’s Freedom To Dress Circulated Selectively

Misbar investigated the viral claim and found it to be selective.

Misbar’s investigative team searched the claim online and found it to be taken out of context.

Mohammed Bin Salman’s Remark on Women’s Freedom To Dress Is Taken Out of Context

Contrary to the viral claim on social media, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman did not state that women in Saudi Arabia can wear whatever they want without male permission. 

Misbar investigated the claim and found it to be a misinterpretation of a CBS News interview with bin Salman on the "60 Minutes" television broadcast on March 19, 2023.

According to the interview transcript, bin Salman stated that women should decide what type of clothing to wear as long as it is decent and respectful. 

His remark reads, “The laws are very clear and stipulated in the laws of Sharia: that women wear decent, respectful clothing, like men. This, however, does not particularly specify a black abaya or a black head cover. The decision is entirely left for women to decide what type of decent and respectful attire she chooses to wear.”

Following the interview, media outlets selectively shared the Saudi Crown Prince's statement, often using catchy headlines to engage readers. 

For instance, DW highlighted his remarks with a focus on how the remark "could signify a big step for women's rights," but added that "there was one catch," and added a headline in the article that reads, “'Respectful' clothes open to interpretation.”

What Is an Abaya?

Worn by Muslim women, an abaya is a long, loose-fitting, robe-like garment that covers the entire body except for the face, hands, and feet. Through the abaya, women can express their religious identity and dedication to following Islamic guidelines regarding modest attire.

In more conservative social circles, the abaya is a customary part of dress, aligning with social norms and cultural expectations. It is usually worn over everyday clothing and paired with a headscarf to cover the hair. Traditionally black or dark in color, the abaya’s design and aesthetics now vary across different regions and communities.

Saudi Arabia Allows More Pro-Women Reforms

Since Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman rose to power, he has implemented several social reforms that have expanded freedoms for women. In 2018, women were allowed to drive after Saudi state media announced that provisions were being made to issue driving licenses to women as part of a broader liberalization effort.

Moreover, reforms include allowing women to attend public sporting events, albeit in a 'family' zone segregated from male fans. In January 2018, Saudi Arabia permitted female football fans to enter a stadium in the western city of Jeddah, marking the first time Saudi women were able to watch a match in person.

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