February has long been known as the month of love as Valentine's Day is widely celebrated every year on the 14th of this month. In many countries, people celebrate the occasion by giving chocolates, flowers and cards to their loved ones. However, there are some countries that have banned the celebration of Valentine's Day as it is not part of their religion.
In today's post, let's find out the reasons why Valentine's Day was not allowed in Saudi Arabia
1-Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is a Muslim nation located in Southwest Asia and comprising most of the Arabian Peninsula.
Since public displays of affection are taboo in Saudi Arabia, celebrating Valentine's Day went against the country's ideologies.
Therefore, on February 14, celebrating or selling anything related to Valentine's Day, such as red roses or teddy bears, was prohibited. On this day, shops could be searched by the authorities.
Everything related to Valentine's Day was confiscated and shop owners who broke the law were arrested and punished.
In fact, in 2014, five Saudi nationals were sentenced to 39 years in prison after they were caught dancing with six women they were not married to.
The country's attitude changed in 2018 when the former head of the religious police declared that the celebration of love is not against Islamic teaching, because it is universal.
So, after years of religious police bans and restrictions, young people can now legally celebrate this day.
