The Saudi Ministry of Education has issued a new directive requiring secondary school students in both public and private institutions to wear the national dress.

Announced on Friday, the policy is in line with the directives of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and aims to reinforce national identity and instill pride in Saudi heritage.

Saudi students will be required to wear the traditional thobe along with a ghutra or shemagh, while non-Saudi students must wear the thobe.

The policy does not extend to students attending foreign schools.

The decision reflects the Crown Prince's commitment to strengthening the connection between younger generations and Saudi cultural traditions.

The Ministry emphasized that this move aligns with national efforts to foster values of loyalty, belonging, and pride in the country’s leadership.

As part of the initiative, the Ministry will launch awareness campaigns and educational programs aimed at helping students and parents understand the importance of the national dress in cultivating cultural pride.

The policy also supports the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals to preserve and celebrate Saudi Arabia’s cultural heritage while preparing future generations for leadership and national progress.