Okaz/Saudi Gazette

RIYADH — Male and female staffers in the Kingdom’s hospitals and primary health centers are directed to strictly comply with the approved dress code and not to wear any clothing that bear images, writings or slogans contrary to the religion of Islam.

Well-informed sources confirmed to Okaz/Saudi Gazette that directors of primary healthcare centers and heads of departments in hospitals across the Kingdom have received directives from the higher authorities in this regard.

They were asked to ensure that their employees shall abide by the dress code and not allow those staffers and trainees, who are not ready to comply with these regulations, to work at hospitals and health centers.

The sources said that the responsibility rests with the head of the hospital department or health center, and in the event of non-compliance with the directive they will eventually face punitive measures. Each health practitioner needs to sign a declaration form attached with the directive.

The declaration includes readiness to comply with the dress code of the health facilities and a ban on wearing transparent, tight or open clothing, as well as clothing bearing images, writings, or slogans contrary to the Islamic religion.

It also includes a ban on hairstyles, wearing hats and chains, and using cosmetics.