It’s not just social behaviors that differ among countries: legal systems differ in many important ways. It’s a good idea for the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs to point this out to traveling Saudis. In a pamphlet for travelers—including businessmen and students—the Ministry offers guidelines about laws under which Saudis will find themselves abroad.

Saudi Gazette/Okaz report that among the differences are the facts that even if a personal case is dropped, say involving domestic violence, the state may take it up. This could lead to the state’s putting children into protective custody.

Foreign Ministry issues advice on foreign laws
By Mansour Al-Shihri

RIYADH – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued information guidelines to inform Saudi nationals of the varying nature of legal procedures abroad and how best to protect their rights when traveling or studying outside the Kingdom.

The guidelines, which have been made available at border exit points, travel agencies, and at bodies such as the Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities, the Ministry of Higher Education, and embassies and consulates abroad, advise Saudis involved in legal cases to only speak in the presence of a lawyer and ensure attendance at court hearings to avoid in absentia rulings.
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