Do You Have to be Muslim in Saudi Arabia?
Many of us have been exposed to a lot of news and controversy surrounding religions in many countries, especially Saudi Arabia. But how much do we really know about religious freedoms in the place? Does one have to be Muslim in order to live in Saudi Arabia? How are non-Muslims treated in Saudi Arabia? In this article, we will try to answer all of these questions and more.
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is a Muslim country with a population of more than 33 million. This Muslim kingdom follows Islamic law known as Sharia law, and although it has been relaxing this policy in recent years, the country remains deeply conservative. Islam is the state religion and all citizens of Saudi Arabia must be Muslim by law. Just the same, other religions are permitted and practiced within the country, with freedom of worship practiced throughout the nation.
In terms of foreign nationals from other countries, even though they can practice their faith as long as they do not affect other citizens, the practice of foreign faith openly is not allowed. Non-believers within the Saudi Arabia are prohibited from sharing their ideas with others and are not permitted to spread awareness about their beliefs. Non-Muslims are even prohibited from displaying articles related to their religion in public places, unless the practice is for personal consumption.
Foreign nationals that get employed in Saudi Arabia must sign an agreement that respects the country’s laws and specifically states that the employee may not preach or practice any other faith other than Islam. Even though there are no legal repercussions for not following this agreement, the employee can be denied a residence permit if the condition is not respected.
Despite the Islamic law in Saudi Arabia, there are active religious minorities within the country, with small pockets of Jewish people and Christians leading an active religious life across the major cities, including Riyadh, Jeddah and Mecca. It is also not unusual to find communities of Buddhists and Hindus within the country, with some of them even enjoying legal work in the country.
Is it Legal to Practice Other Religions Secretly in Saudi Arabia?
The short answer is yes. By law, being a Muslim is mandatory for all the citizens, but a non-Muslim can still practice their faith without any legal repercussions as long as it is done behind closed doors and not shared or expressed publicly. That said, non-Muslims should adhere to the country’s rules and regulations, and respect for local etiquette must be taken into consideration.
The freedom to practice a religion in one’s own home is protected in Saudi Arabia by the Sharia Law, which prohibits any interference that could potentially cause harm to people present. Furthermore, it is forbidden to close a door on a religious leader who seeks to provide religious teaching.
Can Non-Muslims Have a Place of Worship in Saudi Arabia?
No. The public practice of any faith, with the exception of Islam, is strictly forbidden in public spaces. Therefore, it is not possible to rent, or even own, a place of worship as a non-Muslim in Saudi Arabia. This does not mean, however, that it’s forbidden to meet, or to hold religious sessions for non-Muslims.
As long as non-Muslims practice in private homes, or gather with ‘proper’ precautions in remote and secluded locations outside of cities and towns, religious activities can still take place. The point is that non-Muslims should never gather in public places to practice any other faith, as this will bring strong and even legal repercussions.
What are Foreigners Permitted to Celebrate?
As foreign nationals living in Saudi Arabia, non-Muslims are allowed to celebrate important events and religious holidays in private, but no public gatherings, especially holidays of non-Muslim faiths, can take place. Non-Muslims can also not traditionally celebrate religious holidays in public spaces, such as on the street or in public parks.
New Year’s Day is the only holiday which allows people to gather, regardless of their religion, to have a festive celebration. All other holidays must only be celebrated within one’s home and family circles.
Are There Legal Consequences for Non-Muslims?
Yes and no. Practice of non-Muslim religion is not illegal in Saudi Arabia, although any form of public practice or religious gathering is strictly prohibited, and can lead to legal consequences. It is important to note that as long as you respect all other laws, your immigration status will not be affected. However, foreign nationals must adhere to laws of public religious morals.
Furthermore, if someone is in possession of any item with a religious connotation from any other faith (such as a cross or beads for jewelry) in public, legal action can be taken. Any form of proselytizing will lead to a seizure of all religious material. On the other hand, if these items are only for personal use, then they can be kept within one’s home without any legal repercussions.
Are There Places Where Non-Muslims can Feel Welcome?
Yes. Many people are unaware that foreign nationals are able to live and work in Saudi Arabia, and even enjoy a quality life. There are people from over 100 countries living in Saudi Arabia, and the majority of them are non-Muslims. Thanks to improving economic opportunities, foreign nationals are now being offered positions in multiple sectors, and many of them study or work in top universities and companies.
Additionally, Saudi Arabia is becoming more accepting and tolerant due to the efforts of the government, inviting non-Muslims to join in public events and support local initiatives. Community centers and cultural offices are being established all over the country to support religious minorities, such as the Islamic Cultural Center in Riyadh.
Are There Non-Muslims in Government or Political Circles?
Even though it is uncommon, there are some cases of foreign nationals holding government positions. Saudi Arabia is home to many non-Muslims, such as Christians and Hindus, and while most of them stay away from public roles and government offices, there are a few cases in which people from outside the Muslim community have been able to secure political and decision-making roles.
The amount of involvement by non-Muslim nationals in political forums and government decisions remains minimal, and such cases are not common. Saudi Arabia is a majority Muslim country, and the religious laws put in place discourage any presence of non-Muslims in public life and decision making circles.
Do Expatriates receive Any Special Treatment?
No. Foreign nationals are not discriminated against in Saudi Arabia and are not receiving any special treatment, even in difficult times and situations. The country follows strict labor and employment laws, and all foreign nationals are given the same rights and responsibilities as any other citizen, regardless of religion.
In general, non-Muslims can live and work in the country quite comfortably and efficiently with their rights fully protected.
Conclusion
Even though being Muslim is the only religion acknowledged in Saudi Arabia, it is possible for foreign nationals to practice their faith with the right precautions in private spaces. The country is slowly becoming more accepting and tolerant, offering many employment and economic opportunities for people from different backgrounds.
Finally, the government and political circles remain dominated by Muslims, making it hard for non-Muslims to get involved in public forums and decision making roles. Despite that, foreign nationals can have a comfortable life in the country with their rights fully protected.
