City in Makkah Province, Saudi Arabia
Is Mecca LGBTQ+ friendly?
1/5Dangerous
Is Mecca LGBTQ+ friendly?
Same-sex relations are criminalised with severe penalties. No public LGBTQ+ life; avoid public displays of any kind.
LGBTQ+ laws in Saudi Arabia
Hostile: no public LGBTQ+ life and transgender identities aren't recognised. Avoid rainbow items, public affection and online discussion.
| Status | |
|---|---|
| Same-sex relationships legal | No |
| Same-sex marriage | No |
| Civil unions or partnerships | No |
| Legal gender change | No |
| Anti-discrimination law | No |
| Legal penalty | Death penalty possible under Sharia; in practice prison, fines, deportation. |
LGBTQ+ friendliness across Saudi Arabia
Quick answers
Is Mecca safe for LGBTQ+ travelers?
Same-sex relations are criminalised with severe penalties. No public LGBTQ+ life; avoid public displays of any kind.
Is same-sex marriage legal in Saudi Arabia?
No.
More about Mecca
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Sources
- ILGA World: legal frameworks
- UK FCDO travel advice: Saudi Arabia
- Saudi unified visa platform
- Nusuk (Umrah and Hajj)
- Ministry of Hajj and Umrah
Ratings combine national law with local attitudes and the scene. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.