Is it reasonable not to wear a hijab in Riyadh?

[RubberTeeth]

Am going on a business trip to Riyadh. I will be participating in office-based meetings and giving presentations in some auditoriums.

I understand that I should wear an abaya, but have received conflicting advice on head gear - can someone set me straight?

Much appreciated!

I personally do: it causes fewer problems on the street, for one thing - but depending on the setting and participants, I wouldn't necessarily in a meeting.

Also, can anyone recommend a good UK supplier of abayas?

Looking for one in a natural breathable material in size 22 - seeing a lot of nasty synthetic stuff online.

Thank you Mumsnet!

Thanks for the steer. Black only?

I’m visit Riyadh for work most months. I don’t wear a hijab. I wear the abaya - and strongly recommend you do - but you will be fine without covering your hair. It’s relaxed a lot in the past year or so. (My abayas are plain and black.)

*I visit.... (stupid autocorrect)

Check eBay OP. Some lovely stretchy material ones there

Shukr has very good quality clothing. www.shukr.co.uk

I now get mine mostly from ebay, op - but if you live in or near an area with a Muslim population, go into one of the clothing shops: it's cheaper and also easier to find 100% cotton

On the high street, as it were, it's a lot easier to find unstitched versions, that the shop will make up for you (or, obviously, you can do yourself)

Anything advertised as one size is generally good up to a 16: anything one plus size an 18-20. I've learned this from bitter experience

Online, I pay about £35-40; in store around £20-25

Thank you all for the tips!