Saudi Arabia to fine tourists for kissing, immodest clothes, etc.

As Saudi Arabia braces itself for an influx of tourists after its new visa system, it has imposed the fines to ensure that tourists are aware of the law of the land.

A government statement read, "The regulations are meant to ensure that visitors and tourists in the Kingdom are aware of the law relating to public behavior so that they comply with it."

Wearing "improper clothing in public places" can land you a fine of 100 riyals (approx. Rs. 1,900). Women are required to cover shoulders and knees in public, however, they are not expected to cover their heads or wear abayas."

"Both men and women are asked to dress modestly in public, avoiding tight-fitting clothing or clothes with profane language or images," a notice states.

The notification stated that the laws will solely be enforced by the Saudi police force and not the country's religious anti-vice squads, who were stripped of their power to pursue suspects or make arrests in 2016.

The religious police force, mutawa, was responsible for ensuring that people prayed five times a day and that women covered their heads, among other things.

On Friday, Saudi Arabia said citizens from 49 countries are now eligible for online e-visas or visas on arrival, including the United States, Australia, and many European nations.

The push for tourism comes as Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman hopes to diversify Saudi Arabia's economy from oil through the Vision 2030 reform program.

Till now, visitors have mostly been Muslim pilgrims or business people.